Disassembly of the front wheel of the Xiaomi electric scooter M365: Step-by-step guide with photos and tips

Xiaomi electric scooter M365 It's one of the most popular modes of transportation among urban dwellers, but even this reliable device requires periodic maintenance. It takes on bumps from the road, suffers from dirt and sand, and over time may require replacement of bearings, camera or tires. If you notice backlash, extraneous noise when rotating or uneven wear of rubber, it's time to start disassembling.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how to disassemble the front wheel on Xiaomi. M365 without damaging the details, what tools will be needed and what to look for to avoid the typical problems, and the instructions will be suitable for both the original model and its clones (for example, the Ninebot). ES1/ES2), Because the wheel design is the same, we'll also look at when you can do the disassembly yourself, and when you should go to the service.

When is the front wheel needed to be disassembled?

Not every slug or noise is a sign of complete disassembly, sometimes the problem is solved by lifting the mounts or cleaning the mechanism, but there are clear signs that the wheel needs to be disassembled.

  • πŸ”§ Luft wheels - if the scooter is swaying back and forth, you feel free travel (more than 1-2 mm), this is a signal of wear of bearings or weakening of the mounting.
  • πŸ”Š Extraneous sounds – creaking, crunching or knocking when the wheel is rotating indicate dirt, bearing damage or rim deformation.
  • 🚲 Uneven wear of the tire – if the rubber is washed on one side faster, it may be due to improper balancing or damage to the plug.
  • ⚑ Electrical problems – if the scooter twitches when accelerating or brakes with jerks, a malfunction of the Hall sensor in the wheel is possible (relevant for models with electric brakes).

If you notice any of these symptoms, you can put off repairs, and ignoring the backlash of the bearings can lead to a life-threatening jamming of the wheel on the go, while some problems (e.g., a camera puncture) can be fixed without a complete disassembly, just remove the tire.

⚠️ If the scooter is warranty, disassembling the wheel itself can cancel it.

πŸ“Š You have already experienced repair of an electric scooter?
Yeah, I did it myself.
Yeah, I did.
No, the scooter is new.
No, but I plan to learn.

Required tools and materials

For disassembling the front wheel Xiaomi M365 You don't need professional tools -- you'll need a basic set, which is a basic set that most cyclists or motorists will have:

Tool/materialAppointmentThe alternative
Key-hexagon 5 mmUntwisting of wheel mounting bolts to forkThunder handle nozzle
14 mm end key or wiring keyRemoval of the wheel axle counternutGas key (caution can damage the nut!)
Installation blades (2-3 pieces)Removal of the tire from the rimPlastic spoons or dull screwdrivers
Lubricant for bearings (e.g. Liqui Moly) LM 50)Handling of bearings after cleaninglitol-24 waterproof
Mulch and solvent (e.g, WD-40)Cleaning parts from old lubrication and dirtGasoline or kerosene (less effective)

If you are planning to replace bearings, additionally prepare:

  • πŸ”© New bearings 6004-2RS (size 20Γ—42Γ—12 mm) β€” 2 stuff.
  • πŸ›  Bearings Remover (you can do without it, but the risk of damaging the seat is higher).
  • πŸ”¨ Hammer and wooden bar (for neat pressing).

πŸ’‘

Before starting work, take a picture of the wheel from all sides – this will help to properly assemble it back, especially if you are disassembling for the first time.

Step-by-step: how to remove the front wheel

The first step is to remove the wheel from the scooter plug, and the key is to take your time and follow the sequence so you don't lose any small details.

  1. Turn off the power. Turn off the scooter with the steering wheel button and disconnect the battery (if you plan to work with the electric wheel).
  2. Turn the scooter over. Put it on the steering wheel and saddle (if any) or put a soft cloth in order not to scratch the body.
  3. Remove the brake cable (if any). on Xiaomi M365 mechanical front brake - loosen the rope attachment to the fork with a hexagon.
  4. Unscrew the wheel mount bolts. Use a 5mm hexagon key for the two bolts on the sides of the fork. Don't lose the washers!
  5. Take the counternut off the axis. Take the 14mm end key and unscrew the counterclockwise nut. WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
  6. Remove the wheel axis. Carefully pull the axle with the bearings. If it doesn't lend itself, tap the hammer lightly through the wooden shelf.

Now the wheel is separated from the fork, and if you want to replace the tire or the camera, you can start the next step, and if you want to disassemble the bearings or change the rim, read on.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for wheel disassembly

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Disassembly of the wheel: tire, camera and rim

If the problem is a puncture or wear of rubber, just remove the tire and replace the camera.

  1. Pull the air down. Press the camera's nipple to release all the air. If the nipple is damaged, it may be the cause of the puncture.
  2. Put the edge of the tire in. Put the mounting blade between the rim and the tire, then wind the second blade at a distance of 10-15 cm. Carefully turn the edge of the tire out.
  3. Remove the camera. Once one edge of the tire is removed, pull the camera out from under the rim, inspect it for punctures (you can pump and immerse in water, the bubbles will indicate the location of the damage).
  4. Check the rim. Make sure there are no burrs or rust on the rim that could damage the new chamber. If necessary, clean the surface with sandpaper.

When you install a new camera, make sure it lies flat, without torsion. Start putting on the tyre on the side opposite the nipple, and gradually straighten it around the rim. Don't use screwdrivers or sharp objects - this can damage the camera!

⚠️ Attention, Xiaomi! M365 They use cameras with a car nipple (Schrader) rather than a bicycle. Make sure the new camera is compatible with your rim.

How to find a puncture in a chamber without water?
If you can't put the camera in water, pump it up and hold it up to your ear. Spin it slowly, listening to the hissing. You can also swipe your hand over the surface, and the puncture site will be a little colder because of the air coming out.

Disassembly and replacement of bearings

Bearings are the most important part of the wheel. They wear out and they cause a backlash that can eventually destroy the seats in the fork. If you feel a backlash or hear a crunch, the bearings need to be replaced.

New bearings will be needed to work 6004-2RS (This is a closed type, with rubber seals:

  1. Remove the locking rings. There are locking rings on both sides of the wheel axis, and put them in a thin screwdriver or a special detachment.
  2. Press out old bearings. Use a removable or gently beat the bearings with a hammer through a mandrel (e.g., an old axle) and strike evenly so as not to damage the seat.
  3. Clear the seats. Remove the old lubricant and dirt with rags and solvent, check if there are any bullies or corrosion on the axis.
  4. Install new bearings. Press them carefully into place using a mandrel or an old axle. Bearings should sit down to the end, without any distortion.
  5. Secure the lock rings. Make sure they hold the bearings tightly and don't hang around.

After replacing the bearings, be sure to check the backlash of the wheel. If it remains, there are two possible reasons:

  • πŸ”§ Bearings are installed incorrectly (skewed or not fully pressed).
  • 🚲 The landing seats in the fork are worn out - in this case, it may be necessary to replace the fork or wheel assembly.

πŸ’‘

If after replacing the bearings backlash has not disappeared, do not ignore the problem! to operate a scooter in this condition is dangerous - the wheel can jam at speed.

Wheel assembly and scooter installation

The assembly is carried out in reverse order, but there are several nuances that will help to avoid errors:

  1. Lubricate the axle. Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the axle before installation, this will facilitate future disassembly and protect against corrosion.
  2. Check the position of the brake disc (if any). on some Xiaomi modifications M365 disc brake installed. Make sure the disc is not touching the pads and rotates freely.
  3. Tighten the counternut. Twisting the nut on the axis with effort, but without fanaticism β€” if you pull it, the bearings will wear out faster.
  4. Adjust the brake. After you set the wheel, check the tension of the brake cable. It should not be too tight or weak.

After assembly, be sure to check:

  • πŸ”„ The wheel rotates freely, without hooks.
  • πŸ›‘ The brake is operated smoothly and securely fixes the wheel.
  • βš–οΈ No back-and-forth scooters.

If everything is fine, you can test the scooter at a short distance, first drive slowly, listening to the sounds of the wheel, then gradually increase the speed.

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:

Mistake.Effects of consequencesHow to avoid
Using sharp objects to remove the tireCamera puncture or rim damageUse only mounting blades or plastic spoons
Tug-up of the axis counternutAccelerated wear of bearings, difficult rotationTighten the nut with moderate effort, check the backlash after assembly
Installation of bearings without lubricationIncreased noise, overheating, rapid failureAlways apply lubrication to bearings before installation
Incorrect installation of lock ringsLuft wheels, the risk of bearing lossCheck the ring fixation after the bearings are pressed

Another common problem is damage to the Hall sensor (if it's mounted in the wheel), which is responsible for the electrical brake working correctly, and if the scooter twitches after assembly or the brake acts spontaneously, check:

  • πŸ”Œ Correctness of connection of sensor connectors.
  • 🧲 No metal shavings or dirt on rotor magnets.
  • πŸ”§ Integrity of wires (they should not be clamped or rubbed).

FAQ: Frequent questions about the dismantling of the Xiaomi wheel M365

Can I remove the wheel without special tools?
Yes, but with reservations. For example, you can use plastic spoons instead of mounting blades, and instead of bearings, you can use a hammer and a wooden squatter. But the risk of damage to parts is higher in this case, and if you plan to regularly maintain a scooter, you better buy a minimum set of tools.
How often should the bearings be checked?
Depending on the intensity of use. When driving on city roads every day, check the backlash and bearing noise every 3-6 months. If the scooter is used rarely or on flat surfaces, a once-a-year inspection is enough. At the first signs of wear (backlash, crunch), the bearings should be replaced.
What if the wheel turns tight after replacing the bearings?
Probable reasons: The axle counternut is pulled, let it go a quarter of a turn. Bearings are curved, check their position and overpress if necessary. There's no lubricant, take the wheel apart and apply lubrication to the bearings.
Can I bet on Xiaomi? M365 wheel?
Theoretically, yes, but with reservations, the wheel should match: πŸ”„ Diameter (usually) 8.5" for M365). πŸ”§ Type of anchorage (axis) 14 mm threaded). ⚑ The presence/absence of a Hall sensor (if you have one in the original wheel) is better to choose wheels from compatible models, for example, Ninebot. ES1/ES2 or Xiaomi Pro 2.
How to check if the Hall sensor in the wheel is working?
Connect the scooter to the Mi Home or Ninebot app and check: Is the speed displayed correctly, is there any brake system errors, is the scooter twitching when accelerating, if there is a malfunction, the sensor or its wiring may have been damaged, in which case you better contact the service.