Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Wheel hubs

1987 Suzuki Jimny Wheel Hubs

Wheel hubs are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 1987 Suzuki Jimny/Sierra (SJ413). Technical references including the Suzuki SJ413/Sierra Service Manual (Pub. No. 99500-83C10), the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue for SJ413 1984–1989, and Aisin free‑wheeling hub application guides confirm this model uses bolt-on free‑wheeling front hubs along with conventional hub and bearing assemblies on all corners.

On this classic part‑time 4WD, the front wheel hubs do two big jobs. First, the hub and bearings physically support the wheel, brake drum/rotor and studs, keeping everything running true. Second, the free‑wheeling hub on the front axle lets the driver engage or disengage the front axles from the wheels. Locked, it drives the front axle for 4WD, unlocked, it reduces drag, noise and fuel use on the road. Many Aussie and Kiwi Sierras of this era came with manual Aisin locking hubs, though a few base trims used fixed drive flanges.

For servicing, the front and rear hub bearings prefer clean grease and correct preload. Repack the bearings with quality NLGI #2 wheel bearing grease at regular service intervals, and sooner if the vehicle’s been swimming or living in red dust. After water crossings, it’s wise to check for milky grease or fresh weeps around the seals.

The free‑wheeling hubs themselves like a light clean and a very thin smear of grease on the cam and splines—don’t overpack them. Replace the hub body O‑ring and paper gasket if they’re nicked or crushed. The selector should flick from Free to Lock smoothly without graunching.

• Tell‑tales it’s time for attention: front‑end vibration, wheel play at 12 and 6 o’clock, rumbling that changes with speed, grease leaks, or hubs that refuse to lock.
• When replacing, match the front axle spline count (commonly 26‑spline on SJ413), confirm stud pattern, and use new bearings and seals as a set. Torque fasteners to workshop spec and recheck after the first shakedown drive.

For beach runs and bush tracks, they’ll stay happier if the hubs are clicked to Lock and used briefly every month or so, keeping the front diff and shafts lubricated. A tidy, correctly preloaded hub and a hub that locks when told—too easy.

Popular questions about 1987 Suzuki Jimny wheel hubs

Are 1987 Jimnys fitted with manual or automatic locking hubs?
Most Australian and New Zealand 1987 Jimny/Sierra (SJ413) models were supplied with manual Aisin free‑wheeling hubs. Some entry models used fixed drive flanges, and aftermarket automatic hubs exist. If unsure, check the front hub face for a manual selector marked Free/Lock.

How often should the wheel hubs and bearings be serviced?
For mixed on‑road use, inspecting and repacking front bearings every 20,000–40,000 kilometres is common. If the Jimny sees river crossings, beaches or heavy mud, shorten that interval and inspect after any deep wading. Replace seals whenever the hub is apart.

What symptoms point to a failing front hub or locking hub?
Look for free play at the wheel, growling or rumbling with speed, hot hubs after a drive, grease streaks at the back plate, or a hub that won’t engage 4WD reliably. Clicking without drive, or needing a roll to engage, also suggests worn internals or dry, sticky mechanisms.