the wheels fell off

grease the wheels

To create conditions likely to produce or hasten favorable future developments.

hell on wheels

A situation that is tough, aggressive, lawless, and wild.

little strokes fell great oaks

Small but persistent efforts can lead to big results.

one fell swoop

One stroke; one action or event that achieves or accomplishes many results.

set of wheels

A car.

set the wheels in motion

to initiate a chain of events necessary to help one achieve a goal (more quickly)

spin one's wheels

To make no progress despite making an effort; to get nowhere.

spin someone's wheels

To excite someone; to stir someone's emotions.