Front Wheelbearings

[T_HINES_GROSS_LPN]

Hi,
Can anyone tell me how hard it is to change the front wheelbearings.. and how to do it.. would appreciate all the help I can get.. Thanks

[hoofarted]

I replaced my driver's side in my 02 a few months ago, and I used to work in a transmission shop, so I have a pretty good idea for what you can expect.

Tire and brakes come off easy, lower ball joint separates easy as well with a pry bar.

I strongly advise you to use an air gun to remove the axle nut. It is large, tight, rusty, and the nut is a locking type (irregular shaped threads) so it will be tight all the way off.

Once the nut is off, the axle slips out of the bearing easily.

3 bolts holding the bearing assembly to the spindle come out easy.

Now the fun part... getting the bearing out. You will need an air hammer/chisel to get it out. It is not pressed into the spindle, but it is a tight fit and will be siezed in there. Use lots of PBlaster and patience.

The new bearing assembly will slip into the spindle easily, granted you clean up the spindle with a wire brush and use some anti-sieze. Be sure to file down any sharp edges you probably made with the air chisel inside the spindle, or the new bearing might not seat properly.

The rest of assembly is easy, just reverse process. This might be a good time to check those CV joint boots.

No alignment required. Hope this helps.

[derffred]

I also changed mine last year (and will be doing one on my Wifes PT Cruiser Saturday.


I can offer you one tip......
Put the new bearing in your freezer the night before you will be doing the work, it will go in a lot easier that way