Disclaimer: This is a general guide and may not cover every specific detail for your vehicle. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Cadillac Sedan DeVille for precise instructions and torque specifications. Improper repair can lead to serious damage or injury.
Tools and Parts You'll Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential for torque specs and detailed procedures.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Securely support the vehicle.
* Wheel Chocks: For safety.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel Hub Socket (usually 30mm or 32mm): May require a breaker bar.
* Hammer and Punch (or suitable bearing separator): To remove the old bearing.
* Bearing Press: Essential for installing the new bearing correctly; a cheap press can damage the bearing.
* New Wheel Hub Assembly: Buying a pre-assembled hub is generally easier than pressing in individual bearings and seals. Ensure you get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Penetrating Oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized components.
* Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect yourself.
* Wrench set (metric)
* Possibly a caliper removal tool
Procedure (General Outline):
1. Preparation: Consult your repair manual. Disconnect the battery negative terminal. Securely jack up the vehicle and place it on jack stands. Apply the parking brake and chock the rear wheels. Remove the wheel.
2. Brake Caliper Removal: Remove the brake caliper and hang it securely out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. You may need to compress the caliper piston. *Remember to consult your repair manual for the specifics here, as different models have slight variations*.
3. Rotor Removal: Remove the rotor (brake disc). This may require some force; use a hammer and punch if necessary, but be careful not to damage the rotor if you plan to reuse it (often recommended to replace).
4. Hub Nut Removal: Use the appropriate socket and breaker bar (if needed) to remove the large wheel hub nut. This will often be very tight.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is located on the inside of the hub. You may need specialized tools here.
6. Remove the Hub Assembly: With the nut removed, the hub assembly should slide off the spindle. However, it might be seized. Penetrating oil and gentle tapping with a hammer may be required.
7. Bearing Removal: Use a suitable bearing separator or press to carefully remove the old wheel bearing from the hub assembly.
8. Installation: Using the bearing press, carefully press the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated correctly.
9. Reassembly: Reinstall the hub assembly onto the spindle, ensuring it's seated correctly. Reinstall the axle nut, the large wheel hub nut, rotor, and caliper. Critically important: torque all bolts to the specifications in your repair manual.
10. Final Checks: Lower the vehicle, check for proper wheel rotation, and test drive cautiously.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: The ABS sensor might be integrated into the hub assembly. Handle it carefully during removal and installation.
* Spindle Damage: Inspect the spindle for any damage during removal.
* Torque Specifications: Following the correct torque specifications is crucial for the safety and longevity of the repair. Incorrect torque can lead to premature bearing failure or other serious problems.
This is a complex repair. If you are not comfortable performing this task, taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic is highly recommended. Improper installation can lead to serious safety hazards. Remember to always consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
