Wheel Bearings Diagnosis (Sealed)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Safari and 2002 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required

J 8001 Dial Indicator

The following procedure describes how to inspect the wheel bearing/hub for excessive looseness. If you are inspecting the wheel bearing/hub for excessive runout.

Fig 1: Inspecting Wheel Bearing/Hub For Excessive Looseness

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: If you are inspecting the FRONT wheel bearing/hub, support the front of the vehicle by the lower control arms in order to load the lower ball joint.

Raise and support the vehicle.
Mount and secure the J 8001 to a stand.
Ensure that the J 8001 contacts the vertical surface of the wheel as close as possible to the top wheel stud.
Push and pull on the TOP of the tire.
Inspect the total movement indicated by the J 8001.
If the measurement exceeds 0.127 mm (0.005 in), replace the wheel bearing/hub. Refer to WHEEL HUB, BEARING & SEAL REPLACEMENT (AWD) or WHEEL HUB, BEARING & SEAL REPLACEMENT (RWD) .