Parts for your 2019 Toyota Hiace-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing Guide for the 2019 Toyota Hiace

The 2019 Toyota Hiace is a popular choice for many Aussies who need a reliable, tough van for work or travel. When it comes to the drivetrain components of this vehicle, many drivers and mechanics alike are curious about whether it has a centre bearing or not, and why that matters.

After checking through technical specs and drivetrain layouts for the 2019 Toyota Hiace, it's clear that the van does not use a centre bearing. Here's why that is the case and what it means for maintenance and part replacement.

So what exactly is a centre bearing? For vehicles that have a long driveshaft split into two sections, a centre bearing acts as a support point positioned between the two sections. The driveshaft is the component that transfers power from the transmission to the rear differential, helping the van move forward.

When a driveshaft is quite long - as is common for larger vehicles with rear-wheel drive setups and longer chassis - it can be split into two segments with an intermediate support to reduce vibrations and wear. This is where the centre bearing comes in. By securely holding the driveshaft in place and allowing it to spin smoothly, centre bearings help prevent excessive movement or sagging that could damage the shaft or related components.

Now, with the 2019 Toyota Hiace, the design cleverly avoids the need for a split driveshaft on many variants thanks to its chassis and drivetrain engineering. The driveshaft used is generally a single-piece unit or designed short enough without the need for an intermediate bearing. This design choice means no centre bearing is fitted.

Why avoid a centre bearing altogether? The fewer components a setup has, the less there is to go wrong. Eliminating the centre bearing reduces the complexity and potential points of failure in the drivetrain. For the Hiace, this leads to simpler maintenance schedules, fewer parts to source or replace, and less time spent on potentially fiddly repairs. For owners, this means one less thing to worry about when it comes to keeping the van on the road.

On the flip side, vehicles that do have centre bearings need to pay a bit of extra attention during routine servicing. A worn or damaged centre bearing can cause noticeable vibration through the floor or steering wheel, annoying noises like rumbling or thumping, and if left unchecked, it can cause damage to the driveshaft or universal joints. Because the 2019 Hiace does not use this part, these specific issues related to centre bearing failure simply won't pop up.

For those Hiace drivers who still want to keep an eye on their driveshaft health, a few general tips can help:

• Regularly check the condition of driveshaft U-joints - they connect the driveshaft to the gearbox and differential and can wear out.
• Keep an ear out for unusual vibrations or noises while driving, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
• Ensure the underside of the vehicle is inspected during service intervals, including the driveshaft area, for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.

Although the 2019 Toyota Hiace does not have a centre bearing to worry about, it's still essential to maintain the drivetrain components it does rely on. Proper greasing of U-joints, securing mounts, and replacing any worn parts promptly will extend the life of the drivetrain and keep the van running smoothly.

For those curious about centre bearings in general or working on different vehicles, here's a quick rundown of what to look for if a centre bearing is fitted:

1. Check for excessive play or movement by manually inspecting the bearing mount. Excess looseness indicates wear.
2. Listen for rumbling or grinding noises coming from the bearing area when the vehicle is driving at speed.
3. Look for grease leaks or signs of worn rubber in the bearing support housing.
4. Tighten or replace bolts and brackets securing the bearing if necessary during servicing.
5. Replace the centre bearing unit altogether if vibration or noise persists after checks and adjustments.

In short, the design of the 2019 Toyota Hiace's drivetrain keeps things simple by not incorporating a centre bearing. This reduces complexity and maintenance headaches, but like all vehicles, regular checks and servicing remain important to ensure the vehicle performs at its best.

For Hiace owners wanting peace of mind, sticking to Toyota's recommended service schedule and regularly inspecting drivetrain components will help avoid most issues. And if you're ever in doubt, a trusted automotive technician can help diagnose and maintain your van to keep it road-ready.