However, if you are determined to tackle this yourself, here's a general outline of the steps involved. Remember, this is a simplified overview, and you'll need a detailed repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for precise instructions and torque specifications. Failure to follow correct procedures and torque specs can result in damage to your vehicle and personal injury.
Tools you'll likely need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel hub socket: The size will depend on your vehicle.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing the wheel nuts and axle nut much easier.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Tie rod separator: To separate the tie rod from the steering knuckle.
* Brake caliper compressor: To compress the brake caliper piston.
* Large socket wrench or breaker bar: For the axle nut.
* Press or slide hammer: To remove the old bearing and hub assembly.
* Bearing press: To install the new bearing.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening of all components.
* Shop manual for a 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette: Absolutely essential for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
* New axle bearing and hub assembly, ABS sensor (if needed), and all necessary seals and gaskets.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle with jack stands. Chock the wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the Wheel and Brake Caliper: Remove the wheel, then carefully remove and support the brake caliper. You may need to compress the brake caliper piston.
3. Disconnect the ABS Sensor: Carefully unplug the ABS sensor wire harness from the hub assembly.
4. Disconnect Tie Rod and Ball Joint: Separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle and the ball joint from the control arm using the appropriate tools.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This will likely require significant force. Use an impact wrench if possible.
6. Remove the Hub Assembly: This is often the most challenging step. You may need to use a slide hammer or press to remove the hub assembly from the spindle.
7. Replace the Bearing and Sensor: Carefully press the new bearing onto the spindle. Install the new ABS sensor, ensuring it's properly seated.
8. Reassembly: Reassemble in the reverse order of disassembly, paying close attention to torque specifications for all bolts and nuts (especially the axle nut).
9. Bleed Brakes: After reassembling the brake caliper, you'll likely need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system.
10. Test Drive: After completing the repair, test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Again, this is a highly simplified overview. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge, tools, and a detailed repair manual is extremely risky. The potential for damage to your vehicle and personal injury is significant. Professional help is highly recommended. The cost of professional repair is likely less than the potential cost of damaging your vehicle or injuring yourself.
