Install New Center Hub on 2012 MH on Mercedes Sprinter zchassis

[monik7]

When I bought new rear dual tires for my 2012 Itasca Navion iQ which is on a Mercedes 3500 chassis, the tire dealer did not replace one of the stainless steel chrome center hubs correctly. It apparently fell off within the first 100 miles. I’ve bought a replacement but have no idea how to install it so the same thing doesn’t happen. I did read somewhere that once installed it shouldn’t just come off easily by hand. I don’t know whether it would be safe to use a rubber mallet or if that could damage it. I also don’t know if it clicks into place or if it has to be rotated at all. I haven’t found any videos showing how to do this (at least as far as I could find). As you can tell, I’m a complete novice attempting anything like this which is probably easy to do if you know what you’re doing. The replacement wasn’t cheap so I don’t want to mess up. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Sandi

[luvlabs]

I used a plastic, lead filled mallet. You want to make sure that the edge is fully seated on the wheel. I've removed mine and I am planning to paint the wheel at some point.

[Loggenrock]

I believe you are referencing the stainless steel "Wheel simulators" that fill up the entire steel tire rim, correct? Not just the very center of that, right? They go on just like a trim ring or hubcap - metal tabs along the outer edge engage inside the steel rim. I purchased a hubcap tool - see https://www.zoro.com/steelman-hub-ca...RoCXlsQAvD_BwE - or just google "hubcap tool" - they cost about $15 - combination pry tool for removal and rubber mallet for installation. To avoid losing the wheel simulators I run several plastic zip ties thru the holes in the simulator and the holes in the steel Sprinter wheels. Keeps them from working loose. ST

[monik7]

Thanks for your reply, but I’m referring to the Alcoa stainless steel center hub which is in the middle of the Alcoa stainless steel wheel. Not wheel simulators. I had no problem for almost 5 years. Then when I got new duals, one of the center hubs came off on my first trip afterwards. So I’m worried about getting the replacement on well enough so it won’t come off. Still looking for suggestions. I just can’t imagine why a guy at the tire place couldn’t do it right, but maybe I shouldn’t be surprised.
Sandi

[SSTraveler]

You should join the Sprinter forum, https://sprinter-source.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=10. I have a leisure travel van Unity and find the group extremely helpful on all things Sprinter RV.
I have the steel wheels with the Alcoa Chrome Simulators/Hub cap. To install you take a rubber mallet and get it fitted in with just a part sticking up/out. You whack it a few times around the edge area that's out until it pops in. There should be no gap between to Simulator and steel wheel rim. You might need to hit around the entire edge to get seated properly. You need to hit it hard and its okay because the rubber mallet won't hurt it. haven't heard of just the center raised part falling off. Only the entire Simulator/hub cap. You can get a new one on Ebay for $90, https://www.ebay.com/itm/SPRINTER-VA...NS1tLA&vxp=mtr. Most Sprinter Owners use 2-3 SST Cable ties, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Commerci...T-10/203531940, evenly placed to maintain balance, to secure the Simulators to the wheels as an added precaution. They also come in opaque and black. These Simulators are notorious for just popping off when driving.

[monik7]

Thanks so much for your description of attaching the center hub. Guess I head out today to get a rubber mallet. I don’t have the simulator since I have the stainless steel wheels.