Wheel Hub & Bearings: Removal

Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel and tire assembly. Install Axle Shaft Boot Seal Protector (J-28712) to axle shaft boot to protect drive axle during repair. Remove brake rotor. See Figure. Remove axle shaft nut cotter pin, retainer, axle shaft nut and washer. Using a puller, pull hub and bearing assembly off axle shaft.
Remove half shaft. Remove splash shield bolts and splash shield. Support lower control arm with a jackstand. Remove upper ball joint nut. Using press, remove upper ball joint from knuckle. Remove lower ball joint nut. Using press, remove lower ball joint from knuckle. Remove knuckle.

NOTE: Darkened areas on bearing assembly are caused by heat treatment process and do not indicate a need for replacement.

Remove seal from knuckle. Inspect steering knuckle grease seal for cuts, distortion and wear. Inspect steering knuckle, hub and bearing for damage. Replace as necessary. If wheel hub stud must be replaced, use Wheel Stud Remover (J-6627-A).