Changing wheel bearing....questions???

[bchenier535]

I need to change wheel bearings on 99 alero. How difficult is this to do? What's the best product to get? I'm thinking about ordering a set from internet. How reliable are aftermarket parts? The hub assembly with the built in sensor, do you just unplug old sensor and plug in new one? Is that all there is to it, nothing to reset?

[Iflylow]

I'm not sure which bearing are best, but you are right about the sensor-just unplug and plug in the new one. Nothing needs resetting.

[jr6078]

The job isn't real difficult, but you will need some tools that not all backyard mechs have readily on hand...

To start with, you'll need a socket to remove the axle nut, I think it's a 35mm.

Then, I would recommend that you replace the axle nut with a new one. They changed the design from the original and the new one is supposed to promote longer wheel bearing life. Available from a dealer. Of course, the new nuts are a different size than the original. I'm thinking 36 or 37mm, but not positive.

Last, but not least, you'll want a pretty hefty torque wrench to get the new axle nut to the right torque. (I don't remember the exact torque, but it's different for the old style nut vs. the new style. This is pretty important for best bearing life. Also, GM produced a TSB for this, but I don't have that number either. Sorry for my lack of info.

Good luck...

[Iflylow]

Bulletin 03-04-18-002. The new nut is torqued to 173 lb.ft. The old nut is 284 lb.ft.