Parts for your 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero-Wheel hubs

1986 Mitsubishi Pajero Wheel Hubs

Wheel hubs absolutely apply to the 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero factory workshop manuals for the first-generation L040 series, the Haynes Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1983–1996 manual, and Gregory’s repair guides confirm that these models use conventional wheel hubs with serviceable tapered roller bearings. Many 1986 Pajeros were delivered with manual free-wheeling locking hubs (often Aisin-style) on the front axle, while some variants used fixed drive flanges or auto-locking hubs. Either way, the wheel hub is a core part of the front and rear axle assemblies.

On a 1986 Pajero, the wheel hub’s job is to support the vehicle’s weight, allow the wheel to rotate smoothly on tapered bearings, and (up front) transfer drive through the locking hub or flange when 4WD is engaged. For owners who tour, tow, or head bush, keeping hubs in top nick means quieter running, better steering feel, even tyre wear, and far less chance of heat-related bearing failure.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect and repack the front hub bearings roughly every 40,000–50,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle sees a lot of water crossings, sand, or corrugations. Use a quality high-temperature wheel bearing grease, renew the hub oil seal and locking hub gasket/O-rings if they’re weeping, and adjust bearing preload exactly to workshop specs. The factory manuals list the correct procedure: tighten while rotating the hub to seat the bearings, back off, then set the final preload and lock it with the locknut and tab washer.

• Tell-tale signs it’s time for hub work:
  • Front-end rumble or growl that changes with speed
  • Excessive wheel play when rocked at 12 and 6 o’clock
  • Grease or oil seepage at the back of the hub/brake area
  • Locking hubs slow to engage or disengage

When replacing components, stick with quality bearings and seals, clean out old grease thoroughly, and torque wheel nuts evenly once refitted. If the vehicle runs manual locking hubs, check the selector moves crisply, the internal clutch teeth aren’t burred, and the spring and circlips are seated correctly. After any hub service, a short test drive followed by a quick recheck for heat and play is a good shout. Done right, the Pajero’s hubs will handle Aussie and Kiwi conditions for ages.

Popular questions about 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero wheel hubs

Do all 1986 Pajeros have manual locking hubs?
Not all. Many Australian and New Zealand market vehicles came with manual free-wheeling hubs up front, but some trims used fixed drive flanges or auto-locking hubs. The axle code and front hub face usually make it obvious—if there’s a rotary dial marked Free/Lock, they’re manual hubs.

How often should the front hub bearings be repacked?
For mixed on-road and light off-road driving, every 40,000–50,000 km is a good interval. If the Pajero regularly sees water crossings, sand, or heavy loads, shorten that interval and inspect after any deep-water trip.

What grease should be used in the hub bearings?
A high-temperature, NLGI #2 wheel bearing grease rated for disc-brake use is ideal. Avoid mixing old and new grease, clean everything thoroughly before repacking and always replace suspect seals.