Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the truck. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and ratchet: Various sizes will be needed.
* Hammer and punch: For driving out components.
* Pickle fork (or ball joint separator): To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. A pickle fork can damage the ball joint, a ball joint separator is preferred.
* Bearing race and seal installer/remover set: This is highly recommended to avoid damaging the bearings and seals. Improper installation can lead to premature failure.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen rusted or seized components.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening components to the correct specifications.
* Wheel bearing grease: Pack the new bearing with grease before installation.
Steps (General Outline - Refer to a Repair Manual for Specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Raise the truck using a jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper mounting bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Do *not* let the caliper hang by the brake line.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): If your S10 has ABS, carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly.
5. Remove Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: Locate the cotter pin securing the castle nut on the spindle. Remove the cotter pin and then the castle nut using a socket wrench.
6. Separate Ball Joint: This is often the trickiest part. Use a ball joint separator or pickle fork to separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. Apply penetrating oil beforehand.
7. Remove the Spindle: The spindle (with the bearing assembly) should now be able to be pulled away from the steering knuckle. Some models require removing a few more bolts here.
8. Remove the Wheel Bearing: This is where the bearing race and seal installer/remover set becomes crucial. Use the appropriate tools to carefully remove the inner and outer races and seals. Take note of the order and orientation of parts for reassembly.
9. Install New Bearing(s): Pack the new wheel bearings with grease according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use the installer/remover set to carefully install the new races and seals in the correct order and orientation.
10. Reassemble: Carefully reverse the steps above to reassemble the components. Be sure to tighten everything to the correct torque specifications found in your repair manual. This is very important for proper operation and safety.
11. Torque Specifications: Pay close attention to torque specifications for the castle nut and other critical fasteners. Using a torque wrench is essential.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly: Some S10s may require replacing the entire hub assembly instead of just the bearings. Inspect the hub closely for damage or wear.
* ABS Sensor: Be extremely careful with the ABS sensor; it is fragile.
* Repair Manual: This is *strongly* recommended. A repair manual will provide specific instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams for your particular year and model of S10.
This is a simplified overview. Improper installation can lead to serious damage or injury. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair is far less than the potential cost of a damaged vehicle or personal injury.
