Here's a general overview of the process. This is NOT a substitute for a repair manual.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Hammer: For removing and installing components.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Pry bar: May be helpful for separating components.
* Bearing puller: Essential for removing the old bearings. A quality, two-jaw puller is recommended.
* Bearing installer: Necessary for safely installing the new bearings. Again, a good quality tool is crucial to avoid damaging the new bearings.
* Torque wrench: Critical for tightening components to the correct specifications.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen rusted or seized components.
* Grease: For repacking the new bearings.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the vehicle using the jack and securely support it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
2. Remove the Brake Caliper: Unbolt the caliper and hang it from the suspension using a wire or bungee cord to keep it out of the way. You may need to compress the caliper piston if necessary.
3. Remove the Rotor (Disc Brake): Remove the rotor bolts and carefully slide the rotor off the hub.
4. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut: This secures the wheel bearing. Note the position of the cotter pin and castle nut for reassembly.
5. Remove the hub assembly: This is where the bearing puller is essential. Carefully remove the hub from the spindle. The repair manual will show how to correctly engage the puller.
6. Remove the old bearings: This often requires a bearing puller or race separator. The old bearings are usually pressed onto the hub and spindle.
7. Clean and inspect: Thoroughly clean all components. Inspect the spindle for damage.
8. Install new bearings: Use the bearing installer to press the new bearings onto the hub and spindle. This step requires precision to avoid damaging the bearings.
9. Reassemble: Carefully reassemble everything in the reverse order of disassembly, following the steps in your repair manual. Pay close attention to the correct orientation of the bearings and seals.
10. Torque specifications: Use your torque wrench to tighten all components to the manufacturer's specifications found in your repair manual. This is crucial to prevent premature bearing failure.
11. Pack the bearings with grease: This is typically done while assembling the hub. Consult your manual for the correct grease and amount.
12. Lower the vehicle: Once everything is reassembled and torqued, lower the vehicle and test drive carefully.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensors: If your S-10 has anti-lock brakes (ABS), be very careful with the ABS sensor. Damage to this sensor can cause problems with your ABS system.
* Wheel Bearing Races: Sometimes the bearing races are pressed into the hub or spindle and may need to be replaced as well.
This is a simplified overview. You MUST consult a repair manual specific to your 1992 Chevy S-10 model before attempting this repair. If you are not comfortable with this type of repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed wheel bearings can be extremely dangerous.
