Front hub bearing assembly and axleshaft (solid axle) – removal and installation
Removal
Note: If you’re removing the axleshaft in order to replace the axleshaft seal or bearing, we recommend having the job done by a dealer service department or a qualified independent garage. Replacing the seal or the bearing requires special tools.
1. Loosen the wheel lug nuts. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel.
2. Remove the brake caliper and support it out of the way with wire (see Brakes). Remove the brake disc.
3. On light-duty axles, remove the cotter pin and axle hub nut. On heavy-duty models, bend the nut’s collar out of the slot in the axle.
4. Remove the hub-to-knuckle bolts.
5. Remove the hub bearing from the steering knuckle and axleshaft. If the axleshaft splines stick in the hub, a two jaw puller may be required to push the axle out.
6. Carefully pull the axleshaft from the axle housing. Note: On heavy-duty models, there is a large shim on the outer end of the axle-shaft that must retained. If the U-joint is worn, it can be replaced (Universal joints – replacement).
Installation
7. Clean the axleshaft and apply a thin film of wheel bearing grease to the shaft splines, seal contact surface and hub bore. Install the axleshaft (with its shim, on heavy-duty models) engaging the splines with the differential side gears. Be very careful not to damage the axleshaft oil seals.
8. Install the hub bearing. Install the hub bearing-to-steering knuckle bolts and tighten them to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.
9. Install the axleshaft washer and nut, tighten the nut to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications. Line-up the nut with the next cotter pin hole and install a new cotter pin.
10. Install the brake disc and caliper (see Brakes).
11. Install the wheel and hand tighten the wheel lug nuts.
12. Remove the jackstands, lower the vehicle and tighten the wheel lug nuts to the torque listed in the Chapter Tune-up and routine maintenance Specifications.