Uniball Bearing Kit "KT-Track" for the rear axle joints of the Lotus Exige V6
The KOMO-TEC Uniball Bearing Kit "KT-Track" was developed for the lower control arm connections to the rear axle joints of the Lotus Exige V6.
In intensive track operation, the standard sealed bearings can reach their load limits due to high braking forces, aerodynamic downforce, grippy semi-slick tires, and driving over curbs. Especially the lower bearing positions are subjected to significant axial forces.
The KT-Track Kit replaces the two standard lower bearings with special motorsport spherical bearings with significantly higher load reserves.
High loads in track use
The rear axle joint bearings provide the movable connection to the upper and lower control arms. In normal road operation, the standard bearings reliably fulfill their task.
However, significantly higher loads occur on the racetrack, for example due to:
High deceleration values
Semi-slick and motorsport tires
Increased aerodynamic downforce
High lateral acceleration
Rapid load changes
Regularly driving over curbs
Hard impacts and strong spring movements
These loads can lead to increased play in the lower bearing, especially. In extreme cases, there is a risk that the stock bearing may be damaged within its housing or pushed out of the axle's bore.
Structural weakness of the stock bearing
The stock bearing has an angular outer housing. The occurring axial forces are thus supported to a significant extent by the internal plastic bearing shell.
Under exceptionally high loads, this plastic component can be overloaded. Possible consequences include increasing bearing play, imprecise wheel guidance, and in extreme cases, bearing failure.
Approximate load calculation
For the development of the KT-Track Kit, the possible axial loads on the upper and lower bearings of the rear axle were roughly calculated.
The following values were used for the worst-case consideration:
| Calculation basis | Value |
|---|---|
| Static wheel load | 375 kg |
| Dynamic wheel load at 2 g | 750 kg |
| Wheel radius | 350 mm |
| Assumed friction value of the tire | 1.35 |
This results in the following maximum axial loads:
| Bearing position | Calculated axial load |
|---|---|
| Lower bearing – Force Bz | approx. 1,920 kg or 18.8 kN |
| Upper bearing – Force Az | approx. 960 kg or 9.4 kN |
These figures represent a rough worst-case consideration. The actual forces depend, among other things, on vehicle weight, tires, suspension, aerodynamics, track profile, and driving style.
Motorsport joint bearings with high reserves
The KT-Track Kit uses a joint bearing specifically designed for high-load suspension applications.
The bearing used is designed for radial dynamic loads of up to approx. 9,300 kg or around 91 kN. At the same time, it can absorb axial forces that are significantly above the values determined in our worst-case calculation.
This creates additional safety reserves for vehicles that are regularly used on track days or in motorsport.
More precise wheel guidance
In addition to the higher mechanical load capacity, the play-free uniball bearing improves the guidance of the rear axle.
The lower elastic compliance supports:
More precise wheel guidance
More direct driving behavior
Better feedback
More consistent axle geometry under load
Improved control under high lateral and longitudinal forces
Higher load capacity in track day and racing use
In comparison to a comfort-oriented stock suspension, uniball joint bearings can transmit more noise and vibrations into the vehicle.
Suitable for
Lotus Exige V6
Lower control arm connection to the rear axle carriers
Sporty and motorsport-used vehicles
Vehicles with semi-slick or motorsport tires
The exact compatibility must be checked before ordering based on vehicle model, year of manufacture, and design of the rear axle carriers.
Scope of delivery
2 × KT-Track uniball bearing bushings
Designed for the two lower control arm connections of the rear axle carriers
A complete set for the left and right side of the vehicle
Control arms and axle carriers are not included in the scope of delivery.
Important installation note
The installation involves safety-relevant components of the suspension and may only be carried out by a qualified chassis or motorsport specialist.
Before installation, the bearing holes of the axle carriers must be checked for damage, deformation, corrosion, and unacceptable play. Damaged or already enlarged axle carriers must not be reused without prior proper repair.
The bearings must be pressed in with suitable tools, aligned, and without damage. After installation, all fastenings, the clearance of the suspension, and the complete axle geometry must be checked. Finally, a professional wheel alignment is required.
The joint bearings should be checked for play, damage, and secure fit at regular intervals during frequent track use.