Here's a general outline of the process. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on the exact model and trim level of your Cavalier. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1990 Cavalier for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: For safety.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, including metric.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Hammer and punch: May be needed for stubborn parts.
* Bearing packer: To repack the wheel bearing (if it's a serviceable bearing, not a sealed unit). This is crucial if you're reusing the old bearing housing.
* Torque wrench: Absolutely necessary to tighten bolts to the correct specifications.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
* New wheel bearing: Get the correct part number from a parts store, providing your vehicle's VIN. It's often sold as a complete hub assembly.
* Possibly a press: If you're pressing the old bearing out and the new one in, but often a new assembly eliminates the need for this.
General Steps (This is NOT a complete guide, consult a repair manual):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car. Jack up the car and securely place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way, using wire or a bungee cord to prevent it from dangling and stressing the brake line.
4. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (If Applicable): If your Cavalier has ABS, carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub.
5. Remove the Rotor (or Drum): Depending on your model, you'll either have disc or drum brakes. Remove the rotor (disc brakes) or the drum (drum brakes).
6. Separate the Ball Joint: This is often the most challenging part. You'll likely need a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
7. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a large nut on the end of the axle.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: Once the ball joint and axle nut are removed, the hub assembly (which contains the wheel bearing) should come off. This often requires some persuasion.
9. Replace the Bearing: This is where things get tricky. If it's a sealed unit, simply install the new hub assembly. If it's a serviceable bearing, you'll need to carefully remove the old bearing (possibly using a press), clean the housing, pack the new bearing with grease, and install it correctly. Improper bearing installation is a serious safety risk.
10. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in reverse order, ensuring that all bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications using your torque wrench.
11. Test Drive: After reassembly, carefully test drive the vehicle to ensure the new bearing is working correctly and there are no vibrations or noises.
Again, this is a simplified overview. You MUST consult a repair manual specific to your 1990 Chevrolet Cavalier before attempting this repair. Incorrect installation can lead to serious injury or damage. If you're not comfortable with the task, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
