The automotive division of SKF offers roughly 20,000 replacement products, so it’s no surprise that the company showcased several innovations at its AAPEX booth.

Guided by Michel Vences, Autosphere focused on two specific product lines. The first concerns the SKF X-Tracker hybrid hubs, which combine ball bearings and tapered roller bearings. This unique configuration is designed to deliver superior performance, improved handling, and better fuel efficiency.

This high-performance hub line targets popular light trucks and SUVs. These replacement hubs feature an inner row of roller bearings combined with an outer row of ball bearings. The outer row has a larger diameter than the inner row, allowing more balls to be integrated than in a traditional hub.
This asymmetric design enhances ride comfort while improving steering precision and vehicle handling dynamics. The X-Tracker hybrid hub is 50% stiffer than a conventional tapered bearing hub and delivers up to 30% less friction.
All hybrid hubs in the X-Tracker family meet or exceed OE performance and, when applicable, include speed sensors.

New Timing Chain Kits

SKF Automotive has also expanded its line of timing chain kits for passenger cars and light trucks—both domestic and imported—across North America. The range now covers over 21,000 applications, for models from 2000 to 2025, representing 115 million vehicles on the road.

Each SKF timing chain kit includes all the necessary components for a complete timing system replacement: chain(s), guides, tensioners, and sprockets.

SKF’s timing chain kits are engineered and assembled to ensure the longest possible service life for every component. For example, the chains are made from high-strength, heat-treated steel to reduce wear, while all accessories are manufactured with the same commitment to quality.