Xiaomi's electric vehicle has gained popularity for its reliability, but even time-tested models have trouble requiring owner intervention. Most often, problems arise with the chassis, where constant load leads to punctures or wear of rubber. Replacing the camera or tires on the Xiaomi scooter is a procedure that can be performed independently, if you have the necessary tools at hand and clearly follow the algorithm of actions.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of wheel dismantling, replacement of consumables and reassembly of the unit. It is important to understand that an electric scooter is a technically complex device where each element performs its function. Negligence in assembly can lead to uneven wear or even short circuit in the power supply chain of the engine.
Experienced craftsmen recommend not waiting for a complete failure of the part, but to conduct a preventive inspection. If you notice that the Xiaomi M365 or Pro 2 has become worse to hold a charge or make extraneous sounds when driving, perhaps the problem lies in the deformation of the wheel or friction of the tire. Timely replacement of the camera will prolong the life of your device and ensure safety on the road.
Necessary tools and preparation for repairs
Before you start disassembling, you need to prepare a set of tools. A standard kit that comes in a box with a scooter will not be suitable for full repair of the chassis. You will need specialized keys and accessories that will ensure the accuracy and safety of the process.
To replace the wheel on models Xiaomi M365, Pro and Pro 2 will require the following set:
- π§ Set of hexagonal keys (mandatory presence of 5 mm and 8 mm).
- π© Wrench or 8 mm head for removal of axle.
- π οΈ Tire fittings (plastic or metal with neat edges).
- π¨ Pump with pressure gauge for pumping a new chamber.
- π§€ Talc or baby powder for treatment of the inner surface.
It is also important to prepare the spare camera itself and, if necessary, a new tire. Make sure the dimensions match your model: for the M365 it is usually 8.5 inches. Don't forget about talc - it prevents the camera from friction against the tire from the inside, which reduces the risk of scuffling and subsequent puncture.
β οΈ Warning: Before any work begins, be sure to turn off the scooter and disconnect the battery if the design allows.
It's best to do it on a flat surface in good light, cover the place with a soft cloth so you don't scratch the decorative elements of the deck or frame, and if you have the ability to fix the scooter upright or flip it over, it's going to make it much easier to access the wheels.
Dismantling of front and rear wheels
Xiaomi's scooters have their own characteristics for the front and rear axles. The front wheel is easier to remove because the engine's power wires are not connected to it. The rear wheel requires more care due to the motor wheel and cable channels.
First, let's look at the front wheel. Turn the scooter over and find the nuts that hold the axle. There's usually two on each side, but the design can vary depending on the modification. Unscrew the nuts by 8 mm. If the nuts are boiling, use penetrating lubricant, but act carefully so as not to damage the thread.
The rear wheel is more complicated, and in addition to the fasteners, it's important not to damage the wiring, and in some models, the cable is inside the hollow axis, in others it is out through the protective casing.
- π Carefully disconnect the motor connector if the design requires complete removal.
- π© Weaken the bolts of the shock absorber or frame attachment if they interfere with the axis extraction.
- π Lock the scooter so it doesnβt fall during the dismantling process.
When removing the rear wheel, carefully monitor the position of the cable channel. If the wire is pulled or twisted, there is a high risk of damage when the wheel is reset. Some experts recommend completely disconnecting the motor connector from the controller to avoid accidental short circuits when manipulating metal tools.
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To unscrew the nuts easier, preheat them with a building hair dryer or treat WD-40 10-15 minutes before the start of work.
Replacement of camera and tires: step-by-step instructions
After successful wheel dismantling, the most important step is to replace the rubber, which requires the utmost care, as sharp edges of the mounts or sloppy movement can damage the new camera.
First, you need to completely flush the air out of the old chamber. Press the nipple spool and make sure the camera is deflated. Then, using the mounts, you can pull the edge of the tire and turn it outwards. Go around, gradually releasing one side of the tire from the rim.
The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- Remove the old camera and inspect the inside of the tire for sharp objects (glass, nails, wire).
- Treat the inner surface of the new chamber with talc so that it does not stick to the tire rubber.
- Insert a new camera inside the tire, having previously slightly pumped it with air so that it spreads.
- Tuck the edges of the tire back onto the rim, starting with the area opposite the nipple.
Pay special attention to the installation of the nipple. It must enter the rim hole strictly perpendicular. If the nipple is skewed, it can tear or damage when pumped. After installation, check that the tire has sat evenly throughout the diameter.
βοΈ Checklist for rubber replacement
It is important to note that Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter models use tubeless or chamber tires depending on the year of manufacture and region. Make sure you use compatible components. Installation of a chamber tire on a tubeless rim without a camera is not possible, and vice versa - using a chamber tire requires a camera.
Installation of the wheel and electronics connection
The assembly is done in reverse order, but with a number of important nuances, especially in the rear wheel, where you need to properly stack the wires, the cable should not be stretched, twisted or sandwiched between moving parts.
Insert the wheel axis into the seat. Make sure the engine strands (the tooth part) match the gearbox's response. If the wheel doesn't fit, don't use force -- check alignment. After you install the wheel, tighten the axle nuts. The puffing moment should be sufficient to keep the wheel from dangling, but not excessive to keep the thread from breaking.
When connecting the motor connector, make sure the contacts are dry. Often moisture or dirt can accumulate in the axis cavity.
- π§ Wipe the contacts with an alcohol napkin before joining.
- π Connect the connector to a characteristic click.
- π‘οΈ Make sure that the wire insulation is not damaged by the sharp edges of the frame.
To protect the connections, it is recommended to use a shrink or special lubricant for electrical contacts, especially if you plan to operate a scooter in wet weather.This will prevent oxidation and corrosion, which can lead to power loss or controller errors.
β οΈ Warning: Never turn on the scooter if the motor connectors are not connected or not fully connected, this can cause a controller error or even combustion.
What to do if the wheel is running?
Work check and test run
After assembly, you need to make sure that the work is done correctly. Visually inspect the wheel: it should rotate freely, without friction against the brake disc or the elements of the frame. The gap between the tire and the brake caliper should be uniform on all sides.
Pump the camera to the recommended pressure. For most Xiaomi models, this value is 50 PSI (about 3.5 bar), insufficient pressure will lead to rapid wear and risk of breakdown, and excessive pressure will lead to deterioration of grip and comfort.
Table of recommended parameters for different models:
| Model scooter | Diameter of the wheel | Recommended pressure (PSI) | Tyre type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | 8.5 inches | 50 | Chamber/Cameraless |
| Xiaomi Pro 2 | 8.5 inches | 50 | Intemperate |
| Xiaomi Essential | 8.5 inches | 45-50 | Chamber |
| Xiaomi Pro 4 | 10 inches | 45 | Intemperate |
Take a short test run in a safe place. Pay attention to the scooter's acceleration and braking behavior. There should be no steering beat, no vibrations, no extraneous sounds. If the scooter is stable, you can count as a replacement.
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The right tire pressure is a key factor in safety and range, and check it before every trip.
Frequent errors and operating tips
When self-repairing, beginners often make mistakes that can cost extra. One of the most common is the use of inappropriate tools that damage the rim or the sides of the tire. Always use specialized mounts.
Another mistake is to ignore the brake disc, and when you remove the wheel, you risk deforming it, and if the disc is bent, the brakes will not work properly and will make a grinding noise, and then you have to align or replace the disc.
Tips for extending the life of wheels:
- π« Avoid driving on broken glass and sharp stones.
- π¨ Check your tire pressure regularly (once a week).
- π§Ό Wash the wheels with a soft brush, removing dirt from the tread.
Remember, rubber is limited in life, and even if you don't puncture, you lose elasticity and traction over time, and timely replacement is the key to your safety on the road.
β οΈ Warning: Do not use car sealants to repair punctures in scooter chambers. They can disrupt the wheel balance and damage the rubber structure.