How to properly unscrew the front wheel on Xiaomi M365: nuanced

Removal of the front wheel on the Xiaomi electric scooter M365 — Whether you plan to replace the tire, fix the puncture, clean the bearings or make a complete upgrade (for example, install tubeless rubber), the correct dismantling of the wheel will save you from damage to the brake disc, rim or even There are risks of mistakes, from the broken thread on the axle to the breaking of the wires of the speed sensor, which then has to be soldered.

In this article, we'll take the process through steps, from tool preparation to final assembly, and we'll also uncover hidden nuances that are not covered in standard manuals, such as why you can't use a key extension cord, how to avoid skewing brake pads, and what to do if the axis is stuck to the frame, and we'll look at typical breakdowns after improper dismantling and give you a checklist to diagnose the scooter before disassembly.

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1.Preparation: security tools and measures

Before you grab the keys, make sure you have everything you need.The minimum set of tools for removing the front wheel Xiaomi M365:

• 🔧 14 mm end key (preferably with a rattle handle) to unscrew the axis nut. Important: the head must be thin-walled to fit between the fork feathers.
• 🔨 Hexagon by 5 mm - for fixing the axis when unscrewing the nut (otherwise the axis will be turned around).
• 🛠️ Flat screwdriver - for tweaking the cover of the speed sensor (if access to wires is required).
• 🧲 Magnet - so as not to lose small washers and bearings during disassembly.
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubrication - if the axis "stick" to the frame.

What NOT to be in your arsenal:

• ❌ The dilution key - it will tear the edges of the nut.
• ❌ Hammer – impact loads will damage bearings or brake disc.
• ❌ Key extension - excessive force deforms the thread on the axle.

Before starting work, it is mandatory to:

⚠️ Warning: Disconnect the scooter from charging and remove the battery (if you plan to work with the wires of the speed sensor!

Also check the condition of the brake pads. If they are worn more than 70%, they should be replaced immediately, after removing the wheel, access to them will be open.

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If you are taking off the wheel for the first time, take a picture of the location of all the parts (especially the washers and bearings) on the phone, which will help to avoid errors in the reverse assembly.

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2 Step-by-step: remove the wheel without damage

Now, let's get to the practice. Follow the algorithm in strict order, and that's to ensure you don't miss out on critical moments.

Step 1. Axis fixation

Insert the hexagon 5 mm into the hole on the axis opposite to the nut. This will block the axis from turning. If the hexagon is not held (for example, due to wear of the faces), you can pinch the axis with pliers through the soft tissue so as not to damage the coating.

Step 2. Untwisting the nut

Put the end key 14 mm on the nut and spin counterclockwise. Don't use excessive force -- if the nut doesn't lend itself, spray the thread. WD-40 If that doesn't work, check if the axis is rotating (possibly the hexagon popped out).

Step 3: Remove the wheel

Once the nut is unscrewed, carefully pull the axle out of the fork. Attention: the wheel may jam due to deformation of the brake pads. Don't pull it by force - first loosen the brake caliper (two nuts by 8 mm behind the fork).

Step 4: Disconnect the speed sensor

If you need to remove the wheel completely (for example, to replace the rim), disconnect the speed sensor connector, which is located next to the brake disc and is fixed by a plastic clip. Don't pull the wires, grab the connector itself and gently untie it.

Weakened brake caliper (nuts by 8 mm)

Hexagonal axis fixed

The axis nut unscrews without jerking.

The speed sensor is disconnected (if required)

There is a magnet at hand for small details.-->

A common mistake is that many people forget about the stopper washer that is between the nut and the bearing, and if it is assembled back, its absence will lead to the backlash of the wheel. M365 This washer often sticks to the bearing - check for it!

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What to do if the axis "stuck" to the frame

One of the most common problems in disassembly is the acidification of the axis in the feathers of the fork, which is due to corrosion, dirt or deformation of the metal after impacts, and don't try to knock the axis out with a hammer, because it will damage the threads and bearings.

Algorithm of action:

1. Treat the joint with penetrating lubricant (WD-40, Liqui Moly or even brake fluid. Wait 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Swing the wheel from side to side, while pulling the axle on yourself. the amplitude of movements should be minimal - 1-2 mm is enough.
3. If the axis does not lend itself, heat the fork feathers with a building hair dryer (no higher than 100).°C to keep the paint intact. The thermal expansion of the metal will help to free up the axis.
4. As a last resort, use a removable (you can make two plates of metal and bolts), press the axis between the plates and gradually twist the bolts, pushing it out.

⚠️ Attention: If the axis is deformed (has burrs or bending), it must be replaced. Operating a scooter with a damaged axis leads to uneven wear of bearings and vibrations at high speed.

Once you remove the axis, clean it and the fork feathers of rust and dirt, and this will be done with a metal brush and a rag soaked in kerosene. Don't use sandpaper, it will damage the protective coating.

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Disassembly of the wheel: tire, chamber, bearings

When the wheel is removed, you can start disassembling it, and it's important to understand what kind of work you need.

• 🔄 Replacement of camera / tire - you will need to remove the rubber from the rim.
• ⚙️ Cleaning/replacement of bearings – you need to remove the locking rings and press the bearings.
• 🔧 Replacement of rim or spokes - complete disassembly of the wheel.

Removal of the tire:

Use the mounting blades (2-3 pieces), start with the side opposite the nipple:

1. Put the shoulder blade under the edge of the tire and hook it by the needle.
2. The second shoulder blade insert at a distance of 10-15 cm and also fix.
3. Carefully press the tire down, freeing it from the rim.

Important: do not use a screwdriver instead of a spatula - it will pierce the camera or damage the rim.

Bearing removal:

Bearings in Xiaomi M365 They're locked by locking rings, and you'll need a circular drawer or two flat screwdrivers to remove them, and don't knock the bearings out with a hammer, because that's deforming the seats, and you'll want to use a press or press them neatly with a mand and a clutch.

Table: Bearing compatibility for Xiaomi M365

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5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when disassembling the Xiaomi wheel. M365. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

Damage to the brake disc

If you take the wheel off with a screwdriver or a key, it will have scratches that will then whistle when you brake, so you can wrap the disc in a soft cloth or cardboard before you work.

2. Loss of washers and bearings

In the wheel Xiaomi M365 Up to 5 small parts (pucks, locking rings, anthers) are used. Solution: spread them out in the order of removal on a magnetic mat or in a box with cells.

3. Brake pad skewing

If the wheel is hard to rotate after assembly, the pads are probably clamped. Solution: loosen the caliper nuts (8 mm) and center the pads relative to the disc.

Damage to the speed sensor

Twitching the wires or disconnecting the connector incorrectly can tear the contacts off, so the solution is always to grab the connector body, not the wires.

5. Wrong axis nut tightening

A weak puff will cause the wheel to fall back, too strong will cause the bearings to deform. Solution: tighten the nut at 40-50 Nm (use a dynamometer key).

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The most common failure after improperly removing the wheel is a break in the wires of the speed sensor, which will cost 1,500 to 2,500 to repair. ₽, So always unplug the connector carefully!

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6. Wheel assembly and test start

The assembly is carried out in reverse order, but there are several critical points:

• 🔧 Bearing lubricant: Use lithium lubricant (e.g. Castrol) LMX). Don’t take solidol or graphite lubricant – they collect dirt.
• 🔄 Wheel centration: after tightening the axle nut, check that the wheel is not offset relative to the fork. Luft more than 1 mm is unacceptable.
• 🛑 Checking brakes: before the first start, press the brake lever - the wheel should be locked evenly, without creaking.

Test launch:

After assembly, perform the following checks:

1. Scroll the wheel with your hand - it should rotate smoothly, without jamming.
2. Turn on the scooter and check that the speed sensor is working (the display should display the speed when the wheel is rotating).
3. Drive 50–100 meters at low speed, listening to outside noises.

⚠️ Warning: If the scooter twitches when accelerating or braking after assembly, stop immediately! This is a sign of improper alignment of the wheel or damage to bearings. Continued movement can lead to an accident.

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7. Upgrade: What can be improved in disassembly

If you’ve already removed the wheel, why not upgrade?: Here are some popular Xiaomi modifications M365:

Installation of tubeless tyres

Pros: less risk of punctures, better grip on the road.

Cons: complex installation, requires a special single sealant.

Tip: Use Kenda tires K193 Innova – they are optimized for electric scooters.

Strengthened axis

Xiaomi's Standard Axis M365 It is often bent when hitting obstacles. Reinforced axles (for example, from Monorim) can withstand loads up to 150 kg.

3. Ceramic bearings

They reduce friction and increase the life of the wheel. Popular models are Boca Bearings or CeramicSpeed.

Brake pads with metal base

They last 2-3 times longer than standard ones. EBC Redstuff or Galfer.

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When installing tubeless tires, be sure to use a rim band - it protects the camera from punctures with spokes. The width of the tape should be 2-3 mm larger than the inner diameter of the rim.

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FAQ: Frequent questions about removing the Xiaomi wheel M365