humming noise while driving

[pottsy710]

i have a 97 gp gt with 71k on it, lately i have been experiencing a low buzzing noise whenever i am driving at speeds higher than 10mph, i am not sure if this is a wheel bearing or what. i did the rotors back in september but the problem didn't present itself until just recently, the buzzing doesn't appear to be related to the engine because i can run it at high rpms in park and not get the noise. the noise also seems to go up in pitch whenever i turn right at speed. any ideas what the problem may be? thanks in advance.

[GTP Dad]

This sounds like a wheel bearing based on the fact that the noise gets louder when you turn right. The only way to get rid of the noise is to replace the bearing.

[richtazz]

I agree with GTP, it's wheel bearing time.

[pottsy710]

i'm guessing that this is not a do it yourself type of repair, i've been told that a particular press is required to do the job which i obviously do not have, is that press a rentable tool or is it even worth trying on my own and should just bite the bullet and replace the bearing, also, should i replace both fron bearings at the same time if only one is faulty, and is there anything else involved in the repair, like i know when you do tie rods you have to realign your car, also i can feel the buzzing in the steering wheel when i am turning to the right, is this still caused by the bearing or could it be an unrelated problem.

[GTP Dad]

Actually the hub, bearing and abs sensor is a single unit. It can be a diy job if you have the proper tools. A press is not required but a torque wrench capable of 150 ft pounds is required along with jack stands. You will also need a new axle nut to do the job right. You may want to purchase a manual to see what is involved in doing this job.

[richtazz]

Again, I agree with GTP dad. The skills required to change a hub bearing are the same as doing a brake job. The only difference is the special tools needed (axle nut socket, torque wrench, torx bit socket, etc...) but very much within the realm of a DIY. Do yourself a favor, don't buy the Cheapo "white box" hubs, they are junk. Don't even look at your impact wrench while installing them, or you'll ruin the ABS sensor, and you'll be doing the job again real soon.

[corning_d3]

An impact will not only ruin a sensor, but it can beat the hell outta those little ball bearings inside your outer CV joint...

[BNaylor]

Also, it is highly recommended to rent a hub puller (special tool) to get it off the spindle. Using a hub puller is standard and proper practice.

[pottsy710]

i'm seeing between 120.00 and 160.00 for a hub assembly, now are those the "cheap white box" hubs, or are they the good ones, i just dont want to do this job again.