Here's a general outline. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your specific Cherokee model (Sport, Classic, etc.) and axle configuration (Dana 35 or 8.25). Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a great investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the front wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes, including metric and possibly SAE. You'll need a selection, likely including deep sockets.
* Hammer and punch: For removing components.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Bearing packing grease: Specifically designed for wheel bearings.
* New wheel bearings and seals: Get the correct parts for your specific axle. It's usually best to replace both bearings and seals on each side at the same time.
* C-clamp or bearing packer: To pack grease into the new bearings.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Pry bar: May be needed to help separate components.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean and prevent contamination.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Drum or Rotor: Depending on your brake setup, you'll need to remove either the brake drum (if it's a drum brake system) or the brake rotor (if it's a disc brake system). This will expose the axle flange and bearing assembly. You may need to use a drum puller for drum brakes.
4. Remove the Axle Flange Nut: This is usually a large nut. It will be very tight; use a breaker bar if necessary. Mark the nut's position relative to the flange before removing it to ensure proper reinstallation.
5. Remove the Axle Flange: With the nut off, carefully remove the axle flange. There may be retaining clips or other components to remove.
6. Remove the Bearing and Seal: The wheel bearing and seal assembly should now be accessible. This may involve removing a retaining ring or other components. Use caution to avoid damaging the axle shaft.
7. Install the New Bearing and Seal: Pack the new bearings with grease using a bearing packer or C-clamp. Carefully install the new bearings and seals into the axle housing. Ensure they are properly seated and aligned.
8. Reassemble: Reassemble the axle flange, making sure to align the markings you made earlier. Tighten the axle nut to the correct torque specification.
9. Reinstall Brake Drum/Rotor: Reinstall the brake drum or rotor.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Torque Check: After driving a short distance, re-check the lug nuts and axle nut torque.
Important Considerations:
* Axle Seals: Always replace the axle seals when replacing the wheel bearings.
* Torque Specifications: Following the correct torque specifications is crucial to prevent damage and ensure proper operation.
* Bearing Preload: Proper bearing preload is essential. Your repair manual will guide you on this. Improper preload can lead to premature bearing failure.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this level of repair, it's best to take your Jeep to a qualified mechanic.
This is a general overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 Jeep Cherokee model before attempting this repair. Improper installation can lead to serious damage and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
