Here's a general overview of the process. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on the exact model of your Dodge Colt (e.g., hatchback, sedan). Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car.
* Wheel chocks: For safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes, likely including metric sizes.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed to help dislodge parts.
* Bearing race and seal installer/remover: These specialized tools are highly recommended to avoid damaging the new bearing and axle housing. Improper installation can lead to premature bearing failure.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications. Incorrect torque can damage components.
* New rear wheel bearing: Make sure you get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* New axle seal: It's best to replace this at the same time as the bearing.
* Grease: For the new bearing.
General Steps (This is a simplified overview – refer to your repair manual):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the vehicle safely using the jack and secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Drum or Rotor: This step depends on whether your Colt has drum brakes or disc brakes. For drum brakes, you'll need to remove the brake drum. For disc brakes, you'll need to remove the caliper and rotor. Properly support the caliper to prevent damage to the brake lines.
4. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a large nut on the end of the axle. It will likely be very tight, so use penetrating oil and a breaker bar if needed.
5. Remove the Axle Flange: This may require removing additional components like the cotter pin and axle retainer.
6. Remove the Old Bearing and Seal: This is where the specialized bearing race and seal installer/remover tools are essential. Trying to remove the bearing with a hammer and punch is likely to damage the axle housing.
7. Clean the Hub: Thoroughly clean the hub and axle housing to remove any old grease, debris, or rust.
8. Install the New Seal: Use the appropriate tool to carefully install the new axle seal.
9. Install the New Bearing: Use the bearing installer tool to press the new bearing onto the axle. Make sure it's seated correctly.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall the axle flange, axle nut, rotor/drum, caliper (if applicable), and wheel. Tighten the axle nut to the correct torque specification (found in your repair manual).
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Torque Lug Nuts: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Important Considerations:
* Pressing the bearing: This often requires a hydraulic press, which most home mechanics don't own. You may need to take the hub assembly to a professional shop to have the bearing pressed in and out.
* Axle shaft removal: In some cases, the entire axle shaft may need to be removed to access the bearing. This adds complexity.
* Brake adjustments: After reassembly, you may need to adjust your brakes.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Dodge Colt for detailed, accurate instructions and torque specifications. Improper installation can lead to serious safety hazards. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic.
