However, here's a general overview of the steps involved, and crucially, the warnings you must heed:
Warnings:
* Safety First: Always use jack stands and never rely solely on a jack. Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Correct Parts: Obtain the *correct* wheel bearings and seals for your specific vehicle year and model. Using incorrect parts can lead to premature failure and damage. Use a reputable parts supplier.
* Torque Specifications: You absolutely *must* use a torque wrench and tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This information is in your owner's manual or a repair manual specific to your vehicle. Improper tightening can lead to premature bearing failure or damage to other components.
* Precision: This is a precision job. Take your time, be careful, and double-check your work at each step.
General Steps (will vary significantly depending on year and model):
1. Preparation: Raise and securely support the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
2. Brake System: Depending on the brake system (drum or disc), you'll need to remove components to access the bearing. This could involve removing brake calipers, drums, or rotors. You may need to carefully compress the brake caliper piston to allow for rotor removal.
3. Hub Removal: Often, the axle flange or hub assembly must be removed. This typically involves removing several bolts. You might need a hub puller tool.
4. Bearing Removal: The wheel bearings themselves will need to be carefully removed. This often requires a bearing race and seal removal tool. Damage to the axle housing is easily done at this stage.
5. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the axle housing, ensuring no debris is left behind.
6. Installation: Carefully install the new bearings and seals, ensuring they are seated correctly. You likely need a bearing installer tool to avoid damaging the new bearings.
7. Reassembly: Reassemble all components in the reverse order of removal, paying close attention to the torque specifications for each bolt.
8. Testing: Lower the vehicle and test the wheel for smooth rotation. Listen carefully for any unusual noises. A test drive is essential.
Where to Find Specific Instructions:
1. Your Owner's Manual: While it might not have detailed instructions, it could have diagrams or torque specifications.
2. Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton repair manual specific to your year and model of Oldsmobile Cutlass is your best bet for detailed, step-by-step instructions and diagrams.
3. Online Forums: Search for forums dedicated to Oldsmobile Cutlasses. Owners often share their experiences and advice on repairs like this. However, always verify information from multiple sources.
4. Professional Mechanic: If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This is a job that can easily result in damage if not done correctly.
Attempting this without the proper knowledge and tools can lead to serious injury or significant damage to your vehicle. Proceed with caution and prioritize safety. A repair manual is absolutely essential.
