Festy Passenger Side Hub Removal Help Needed

[Levitan]

As the "subject" says, my passenger side front wheel bearing is shot. I researched the topic and have decided to get one off of 3 parts cars I found today. Now, from what I understand, I need to grab a good hub. I found one. I have a Haynes manual and am thoroughly confused. I'm going to be working on this in a snow drift due to global warming here in Iowa, so I was hoping somebody could give me basic instructions on what and how to remove the hub assembly from the parts car in the least amount of arctic time.

I'm sure it is something like this:

1. Remove wheel
2. Remove tie rod
3. Remove lower control arm
4. Remove nut on spindle, tap inwards on spindle to remove disc brake
5. From here on, I'm lost (Maybe before this too!)
6. Do I need to compress strut to keep from launching brain matter everywhere?
7. Will I take spindle, shaft and all

Guaranteed, number 5 is correct.

Thanks,
Dan "Levitan"

[freshtiva]

It would be easier to replace the bearings and seals in your existing hub. No guarantee the other hub has good bearings in it. I don't think you have to compress the strut as it will be extended already with the front jacked up. Id take some penetrating oil. I found if you drive a wedge in the control arm ball joint clamp it helps keep it loose while you are removing the knuckle. Its pretty straight forward but not necessarily easy. Do you have a tie rod end remover ? They can be stubborn.

[jglutz]

Step 4? the spindle does not have to come off to remove the caliper. The 2 bolts that remove the caliper are independent of any steps. when I remove the caliper I hang it from the coil spring with a piece of sturdy wire.

Once every thing is disconnected as you described, swing the knuckle away from the car and allow the spline from the axle to become disengaged...also hang the axle with a piece of wire...to much deflection can damage the tripod (the joint at the tranny).

The remainder of the knuckle can be removed by removing the two bolts attaching it to the lower part of the strut....I don't recall that a spring compressor is necessary.

However....from this point on takes some technique and finesse....speak up if your still interested....some more instructions can be posted.

MOST IMPORTANTLY! I agree with frestiva....even the bone yard components should have new components installed.

Very important rule in car maintenance......always complete the work on an axle (both sides of the car) at the same time...not doing so is rolling the dice.

[jglutz]

^^I forgot...to remove the tie rod...first try...loosening the nut until it is flush or a half of thread beyond the end of the stud...then tap (tap means tap) the nut with a soft mallet....the fork type tie rod separator tools can cause damage if your not careful.