front wheel bearing (2001 XJ)

[mtulett1]

I am going to attempt changing my front wheel bearings. How difficult is it and is there anything that I need to know that the repair manual won't tell me? Thanks

[2000izusu]

you will need a 12 point 13mm socket to get the 3 bolts that holds the hub in. i used a 3 jaw puller to get the hub out of the knuckle. i used an impact to get the axle nut off, and you will need a torque wrench to torque the axle nut back on when you are done (175 pound foot?). also try not to pull the axle out with the hub (you don't want to disturb the axle seal.)

if you are an intermediate shade tree fixer you should not have a problem with this procedure

p.s. sit the new and old hub next to each other and make doubley sure the are the exact same! mike

[mtulett1]

thanks I appreciate it!

[drpaul87]

There was a thread on another forum...fter you take out the 3-13 mm bolts, jamb a short extension between the axle and the spindle...turn the wheel...it pops the hub assembly right out. Used it to change my brothers front axle u joints. Don't pinch your finger in it...hurts like he**!!!!

[mtulett1]

thanks the whole job was really esy right up until i broke the ABS sensor ring....needless to say i found a used outer axle at a junk yard for 50 buck and she is running awesome now. thanks for the help.