Here's a general procedure. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on the exact model and condition of your Colt. Consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
1. Secure the Vehicle: Safely lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Chock the front wheels.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Drum (if applicable): If your Colt has drum brakes, you'll need to remove the brake drum. This usually involves using a drum puller tool. If it's stuck, gently tap around the circumference with a rubber mallet to break the seal. Once removed, you may need to carefully clean the drum to avoid scratching the braking surfaces and keep brake dust out of your bearings.
4. Remove the Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: Locate the large nut on the axle end. This is the castle nut. Remove the cotter pin securing the nut before loosening the nut.
5. Unscrew the Axle Nut: Use a suitable wrench to unscrew the axle nut. It will likely be very tight, possibly requiring a breaker bar or impact wrench.
6. Remove the Hub: After the axle nut is off, the hub should slide off the axle. It might be stuck due to rust or corrosion. If so, gently tap it with a mallet while pulling it. A hub puller might be necessary if it's stubbornly stuck. Be careful not to damage the axle.
7. Inspect Components: Once the hub is off, inspect the bearings, seals, and axle for wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn components.
8. Reassembly: Reassembly is the reverse of the removal process. Remember to apply the correct amount of grease to the bearings and install the cotter pin after tightening the axle nut to the proper torque specification.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and Corrosion: On older vehicles like a 1991 Dodge Colt, rust and corrosion can make this job significantly more difficult. Penetrating oil may help loosen stuck components.
* Tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, lug wrench, a suitable socket and wrench for the axle nut (often a very large one), possibly a drum puller, a hammer (preferably a rubber mallet), penetrating oil, and potentially a hub puller. A repair manual is highly recommended.
* Brake System: If working on drum brakes, be mindful of the brake system components.
* Torque Specifications: Always refer to a repair manual for the correct torque specifications for the axle nut. Over-tightening can damage the axle.
This is a general guide. The specific steps might vary depending on the exact model of your 1991 Dodge Colt. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specifications before attempting this repair. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.
