Here's a general outline of the process:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Work in a well-ventilated area. Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a floor jack (capable of lifting the weight of the car), jack stands (rated for the car's weight – check the car's manual for its weight), lug wrench, wheel chocks, a torque wrench (crucial for proper wheel nut tightening), and possibly a creeper. You might also need air tools if you opt for that route.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A shop manual specific to your 1976 Impala is invaluable. It will show you the proper jacking points and torque specifications. Improper jacking can damage the frame or undercarriage.
* Assess the Suspension: 24-inch wheels will significantly alter the ride height and potentially require modifications to the suspension (e.g., lowering springs, custom suspension components) to prevent rubbing or other clearance issues. This often requires professional expertise.
2. Lifting the Car:
* Secure the Car: Engage the parking brake firmly. Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that are *not* being lifted.
* Locate Jacking Points: Your Impala's repair manual will show the correct jacking points. These are typically reinforced areas of the frame. Never jack on the suspension components themselves.
* Raise the Car: Slowly and carefully raise the car using the floor jack, positioned on the designated jacking point.
* Secure with Jack Stands: Once the car is slightly lifted, place jack stands under the frame, at the designated jacking points, to support the vehicle's weight. Lower the car onto the jack stands, then completely remove the floor jack.
3. Wheel Removal and Installation:
* Remove the Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to replace. Do not remove them completely yet.
* Lower the Wheel: Carefully lower the car slightly more until the tire is off the ground, allowing you to remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
* Install the New Wheel: Carefully mount the 24-inch wheel onto the wheel studs. Ensure it sits correctly and flush against the hub.
* Tighten the Lug Nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then use the lug wrench to tighten them in a star pattern (opposite nuts, then the next pair, etc.), ensuring even tightening.
* Lower the Car: Carefully raise the car with the jack until the wheel is fully seated.
* Torque the Lug Nuts: Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial to prevent wheel detachment.
4. Repeat for Other Wheels: Repeat steps 2 & 3 for each wheel.
5. Lower the Car: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car completely.
Important Considerations:
* Suspension Modifications: 24-inch wheels likely require significant suspension modifications to fit properly and prevent rubbing. This is usually a complex process and requires expertise.
* Wheel Offset and Backspacing: The offset and backspacing of the 24-inch wheels must be carefully selected to ensure they fit correctly and don't interfere with the brakes, suspension components, or fenders.
* Tire Size: The tire size must be compatible with the wheel size and the vehicle's specifications.
* Brake Clearance: Larger wheels can sometimes interfere with the brake calipers. You may need spacers (not recommended unless you're very knowledgeable), different calipers, or other modifications.
Again, this is a complex project. If you lack experience, seek professional help. Incorrectly lifting or installing wheels can lead to serious damage to your car or injury to yourself.
