Here's a general outline of the process. Specific steps and tool requirements may vary slightly depending on your truck's exact configuration. Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the truck from rolling.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Hammer and punch: For removing and installing components.
* Bearing race installer and remover: Essential for properly installing and removing the bearing races. Improper installation can damage the races and the hub.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Penetrating oil: Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Clean rags and shop towels: Keep everything clean.
* Grease: Pack the new bearing with the correct type and amount of grease.
* New wheel bearings and races: Make sure to get the correct parts for your truck. They often come as a complete kit.
* Pry bar: May be helpful for separating components.
* Impact wrench (optional but highly recommended): Makes the job significantly easier, especially for removing the hub nuts.
General Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the Wheel and Tire: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the truck. Jack up the truck securely and place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel and tire.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor: Depending on your setup, you may need to remove the brake caliper (support it with a wire or bungee cord to avoid straining the brake line) and rotor to access the wheel bearing.
4. Remove the Hub Nut: This nut is usually very tight. An impact wrench is highly recommended.
5. Separate the Hub from the Spindle: This may involve removing cotter pins, washers, and other components. The hub may be pressed onto the spindle. A puller may be necessary.
6. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing and Races: The bearing races are pressed into the hub and spindle. Use the bearing race installer/remover tools to safely remove them without damaging the components.
7. Clean Thoroughly: Clean all surfaces where the new bearings will be installed.
8. Install New Races: Use the race installer to press the new races into the hub and spindle.
9. Pack the New Bearing with Grease: Pack the new wheel bearing with the correct type and amount of grease specified in your repair manual.
10. Install the New Wheel Bearing: Install the new wheel bearing into the hub.
11. Reassemble: Reinstall the hub, rotor, caliper, and wheel in reverse order of removal. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
12. Lower the Truck: Carefully lower the truck from the jack stands.
13. Torque Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
14. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for any noises or vibrations.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 2005 Chevy 1500 2WD for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly installed wheel bearings can lead to serious damage and safety risks.
