Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the truck.
* Wheel chocks: For safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, including metric.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes the job significantly easier. A breaker bar might also be necessary.
* Puller (bearing separator): Essential for removing the bearing hub. There are different types; a two or three-jaw puller is common.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To loosen rusted or seized components.
* Torque wrench: To tighten components to the correct specifications.
* Hammer (possibly): Might be needed to help break things loose (use cautiously).
* Pry bar (possibly): Use with extreme caution.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To keep things clean.
* A repair manual specific to your 2002 GMC Sierra 4x4: This is absolutely crucial.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Use jack stands to safely lift the truck.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: Unbolt the caliper and carefully hang it out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor. Sometimes this requires tapping it lightly with a hammer, or using a rotor puller.
5. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Unplug the ABS sensor wire.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a very large nut. You'll almost certainly need an impact wrench to remove it. The nut might be left-hand threaded, so be aware of that. Mark its orientation if you intend to reuse it.
7. Remove the Cotter Pin (if present): Remove the cotter pin securing the axle nut.
8. Remove the Spindle Nut: Once the axle nut is off, remove the spindle nut (this holds the bearing hub in place). Again, an impact wrench will greatly assist.
9. Use the Puller: This is where the bearing separator/puller comes in. It's critical to use the correct puller and apply the force correctly to avoid damaging the hub or knuckle. The puller will usually attach to the axle studs, or there might be specific holes on the hub designed for the puller. Slowly and carefully pull the bearing hub assembly off the spindle.
10. Inspect and Replace: Once removed, carefully inspect the bearings, seals, and the hub for wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn components.
11. Reassembly: Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. Remember to follow the correct torque specifications from your repair manual for every bolt and nut, especially the axle nut.
Important Considerations:
* Left-hand threads: Some nuts on the assembly might be left-hand threaded. Your repair manual will clarify this. Turning the wrong way will damage things.
* Torque specifications: Use a torque wrench and consult your repair manual for proper torque values for all fasteners. Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure and potential safety hazards.
* Bearing packing: When reinstalling the bearings and seals, follow the instructions carefully.
* Professional help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This is a complex job with potential for damage if done incorrectly.
This is a complex repair. Attempting this without experience or the correct tools could lead to damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle and consider professional help if needed.
