However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline. Remember this is a simplified overview and specific steps may vary slightly based on your exact truck's configuration. Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
* Repair manual: Absolutely essential.
* Wheel hub removal tool: This is crucial and often specific to the Dana 60.
* Large socket set and wrenches: You'll need sockets and wrenches in various sizes, including those capable of handling large axle nuts.
* Bearing press: Essential for safely installing and removing bearings. Improvising can damage the bearings and axle.
* Torque wrench: To properly tighten components to the manufacturer's specifications.
* New wheel bearings and seals: Make sure you get the correct parts for your Dana 60.
* Grease: High-quality wheel bearing grease.
* Jack and jack stands: Safely lift and support the truck.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Always wear appropriate safety gear.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Clean rags and shop towels: Keep your workspace clean.
* Possibly a hammer and punch: For some disassembly steps.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, chock the rear wheels, and disconnect the battery.
2. Remove the Wheel and Brake Caliper: Remove the wheel, then carefully remove and support the brake caliper (often requires disconnecting the brake line).
3. Remove the Rotor (if applicable): Depending on your setup, you may need to remove the brake rotor.
4. Remove the Hub and Bearing Assembly: This is where the hub removal tool is crucial. It's designed to remove the hub nut and separate the hub from the axle. Use the correct tool and follow the instructions carefully. This step often requires significant force.
5. Press Out the Old Bearings: Using your bearing press, carefully press out the old wheel bearings from the hub and axle.
6. Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean the hub and axle housing. Inspect the axle for damage.
7. Install New Seals: Install new seals into the hub and axle housing.
8. Press In the New Bearings: Using your bearing press, carefully press in the new wheel bearings, ensuring they're seated correctly.
9. Reassemble: Reassemble the hub, rotor, caliper, and wheel in reverse order of disassembly, making sure to tighten all bolts and nuts to the correct torque specifications as per your repair manual.
10. Torque Specifications: Absolutely crucial! Use a torque wrench to ensure everything is tightened to the correct values specified in your repair manual. Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure and damage.
11. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle at various speeds to ensure the new bearings are operating smoothly and quietly.
Important Considerations:
* Dana 60 variations: There are different variations of the Dana 60 axle. Your repair manual will be specific to your truck's configuration.
* Preload: Proper bearing preload is critical for the longevity of the bearings. Your repair manual will explain how to achieve this.
* Hub nut tightening procedure: This is often a multi-step process with specific torque sequences. Follow the manual carefully.
This is a complex repair. The detailed steps and torque specifications are essential to avoid damaging the axle and jeopardizing your safety. Again, if you are not confident in your abilities, take your truck to a qualified mechanic. The cost of professional repair is significantly less than the cost of replacing a damaged axle due to an incorrectly performed repair.
