AVM Manual 4 x 4 Hubs - Be aware of the drawbacks

Have just had an issue with these hubs that deserves to be posted for a buyer beware issue.

I recieved my car back from a service the other day, I was told that they needed to adjust the front wheel bearings and had damaged one of the bolts when removing the Hub Cover, they had to drill it out. (What they did not tell me was that they did not replace it and damaged the gasket, but that is another story).

Thought I would check the other side when I found they had not replaced the bolt. When I tried to remove the bolts the same thing happened, I damaged the bolts Allen Key head. It seems because of the tapered head and the very small size of the bolt, that this may happen often. I had to drill this one out as well.

Then the problem - Try and get a service kit for these hubs. Our local supplier of AVM Hubs where I got them from says they are available but will take some time to get and they will cost around $80. (Give me a break). Bolts are not available on their own.

Basicly I would have to put this product into the cheap and nasty pile due to this experience. My advice is stay away from them not because I had a problem but because this is a definite design flaw that may catch you out when you are out and remote.

Cheers Tony