Removal & Inspection (Front Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly)
NOTE:
Wheel bearing does not require maintenance. If any of the following symptoms are noted, replace wheel bearing assembly:
- Check wheel bearing axial end play. Specification should be less than.002" (.05 mm). If not within specification, replace wheel bearing assembly.
- Growling noise is emitted from wheel bearing during operation.
- Wheel bearing drags or turns roughly. This occurs when turning hub by hand after bearing lock nut is tightened to specified torque.
CAUTION:
When removing wheel hub or wheel bearing from knuckle, replace wheel bearing assembly (outer race and inner race) with a new one. Before removing the front axle assembly, disconnect the wheel sensor (if equipped) from the assembly. See Fig 1. Then move it away from the front axle assembly area. Failure to do so may result in damage to the sensor wires and the wheel sensor becoming inoperative.
- Remove cotter pin and wheel bearing lock nut. Separate tie-rod from knuckle with suitable tool. Install stud nut on stud bolt to prevent damage to stud bolt.
- Remove brake caliper assembly, torque member and rotor. See FRONT BRAKE CALIPER .NOTE: Brake hose need not be disconnected from brake caliper. Suspend caliper assembly with wire so as not to stretch brake hose. Make sure brake hose is not twisted.CAUTION: Be careful not to depress brake pedal, or piston will pop out.
- Remove strut lower mounting nuts and bolts. Separate drive shaft from knuckle by lightly tapping it. If it is hard to remove, use a puller.CAUTION: Be careful not to damage axle shaft boots.
- Loosen lower ball joint nut. Remove knuckle from lower ball joint stud with suitable tool.
- Drive out hub and inner race from knuckle with a suitable tool. Remove bearing inner race. Remove snap ring.
- Press out bearing outer race. Remove baffle plate, if required.
- Inspect components. Check wheel hub and knuckle for cracks by using a magnetic exploration or dyeing test. Check snap ring for wear or cracks. Replace if necessary.