Here's a general outline of the process. Again, this is a general guide, and you should consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Jack up the Blazer securely using jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, lug wrench, socket set (metric), various wrenches (including potentially a large breaker bar), a hammer, a punch, a bearing race installer/remover (highly recommended), a torque wrench, grease, and possibly a press (depending on the type of bearing). A repair manual will detail the specific sockets and wrenches needed.
* Consult Repair Manual: This step is crucial. A Haynes or Chilton manual for your specific year and model will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and specific instructions that are far more reliable than a general description.
2. Removing the Wheel and Brake Components:
* Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the vehicle. Remove the wheel.
* Remove the Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using wire or a bungee cord. Do not let the brake hose hang freely; support it to avoid damage.
* Remove the Rotor: Depending on your Blazer's setup, the rotor may be held in place by bolts or may simply slide off after removing the caliper. Remove the rotor.
* Remove the Axle Nut: This is often a very large and tight nut. You may need a breaker bar and possibly an impact wrench to remove it. Mark its position before removal, so you can reinstall it correctly.
3. Removing the Bearing:
* Remove the Axle Flange: The axle flange is typically attached to the axle housing with bolts. Remove these bolts.
* Remove the Bearing and Race: This is the most challenging part. The bearing and its inner and outer races are likely pressed onto the axle shaft and the housing. You'll likely need a bearing race and seal puller and possibly a press to remove them safely without damage. Some people use a hammer and punch, but this is risky and can damage the parts.
4. Installing the New Bearing:
* Clean Thoroughly: Clean all mating surfaces of the axle housing and axle shaft meticulously.
* Install New Races and Bearing: Use the bearing race installer/remover to press the new races and bearing into place. Be extremely careful not to damage the new bearing. The repair manual will show the correct orientation and proper seating.
* Install New Seal (if necessary): Replace the old axle seal with a new one.
5. Reassembly:
* Install Axle Flange: Install the axle flange and tighten the bolts to the specifications in your repair manual.
* Install Rotor: Install the rotor.
* Install Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper and ensure the brake pads are properly seated.
* Install Axle Nut: Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque. This is extremely important. Incorrect torque can damage the bearing.
* Install Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
* Lower Vehicle: Lower the vehicle carefully.
* Torque Check: After driving a short distance, re-check the torque on the axle nut and lug nuts.
Important Considerations:
* Type of Bearing: Knowing whether you have a wheel bearing assembly or separate bearings and races is critical. The removal and installation process differs significantly.
* Rear Axle Design: The 1995 Blazer likely has a solid rear axle, but the specifics of how the bearing is mounted will vary depending on the trim level and options.
* Press: Using a press is often recommended to avoid damaging the new bearings during installation.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Improperly performing this repair can lead to serious damage to your vehicle or personal injury. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy Blazer and if you are not comfortable performing this repair, take it to a qualified mechanic.
