How to Tell if Your Wheel Bearings Need Replacing:
* Grinding or growling noise: This is the most common symptom. The noise usually increases with speed and might change pitch depending on how hard you're turning.
* Wobble or play in the wheel: Grab the top and bottom of the tire and try to wiggle it. Excessive movement indicates a problem with the bearing.
* Vibrations in the steering wheel: While this could have other causes, worn wheel bearings can contribute to vibrations, especially at higher speeds.
* Hot wheel hub: After driving for a while, carefully feel the wheel hub (the central part of the wheel where the bearing is located). Excessive heat is a strong indicator of bearing failure. Caution: The hub will be warm from normal operation, but excessive heat could burn you.
Replacing the Front Wheel Bearings (General Steps – Specific procedures vary slightly depending on the exact Camry model):
This is a simplified overview and may not cover every detail or variation. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1990 Toyota Camry model for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You Will Need (at minimum):
* Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety)
* Wheel chocks
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Wheel bearing press (essential – using improvised methods is risky and can damage parts)
* Hammer and punch (possibly)
* Pry bar (possibly)
* Grease gun
* New wheel bearings (get the correct ones for your specific Camry model)
* Torque wrench
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster)
* Safety glasses and gloves
Steps (General):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the car and securely support it on jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or bungee cord to avoid putting stress on the brake line.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor (brake disc). Sometimes this requires a few gentle taps with a rubber mallet.
5. Remove the Hub Nut: This is usually a large nut that requires significant torque to remove. Use a breaker bar and possibly penetrating oil if it's stubborn.
6. Remove the Hub Assembly: This step can be tricky and may involve removing cotter pins, ABS sensors, and other components. The hub assembly often comes off as a unit with the bearing.
7. Press Out the Old Bearing: This is where the wheel bearing press is crucial. You'll need to carefully press the old bearing out of the hub assembly.
8. Press In the New Bearing: Using the press, carefully install the new bearing into the hub assembly.
9. Reassembly: Follow the disassembly steps in reverse order, ensuring all components are properly seated and tightened to the manufacturer's specifications (consult your repair manual). Pay close attention to torque values for all bolts and nuts. Pack the new bearing with grease.
10. Final Checks: After reassembly, check for proper wheel play (minimal to none), and test drive the vehicle at various speeds to ensure the repair was successful and there are no lingering noises.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1990 Toyota Camry is essential. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and troubleshooting information.
* Wheel Bearing Press: Don't attempt to remove or install the bearing without a proper press. Improper techniques can damage the hub, bearing, or even injure you.
* Torque Specifications: Adhering to the manufacturer's torque specifications is critical for safe and reliable operation.
This is a complex procedure. If you are not comfortable with any of the steps, please take your car to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly installed wheel bearings can lead to serious safety hazards.
