Front Wheel Bearing Replacement

[ScottXXL]

Well my front driver's side wheel bearings are starting to go. I can hear the whining clearly. How difficult is it to replace the wheel bearings on the front wheels? I already have the new inner and outer bearings w/seals ready to go in. I have the Ciltons manual for my 92 4.0 but I'm worried since this is the first time attempting this. What grease do I need? Can I use synthetic? It needs to be done this weekend and I'm only changing the right side for now, since I only hear noise from the right. I have a 5.5 lift with 32s so do I need to buy some hi-lift jacks? Should I just get it done by a shop? How much time will this take me (first timer)? 2 hrs? 4? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!

 

[irtySanchez]

I did my front wheel bearings about a month ago and it isn't that bad of a job. Even a simple Chilton manual can get you through this job.

A few recommendations:

-Make sure you work lots of grease into the new bearings before installation. This is a simple procedure that will help prevent premature wear.

-Be sure to torque the big retainer nut properly. You will run into mucho problems if you don't.

-I would use plain old wheel bearing grease. Just a personal preference. Some people belive in synthetics, but for wheel bearings I don't.

You may want to do yourself a favor and go ahead and change those ball joints. You are already part way through the job when you are doing the wheel bearings.

Doing this job isn't easy. You will need a ball joint press (or a big hammer-- thats what I did), and alot of patience, and time.

Good Luck

 

[ScottXXL]

Thanks for the advice. I guess I need a torque wrench to tighten thing properly then!

I might attempt to replace the ball joints. It all depends what things look like once I'm there.

Thanks again irtySanchez!