Here's a general overview. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on your exact Cavalier model (2-door, 4-door, etc.) Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Cavalier for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, likely including metric.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Tie rod end separator: May be needed, depending on access.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly for stubborn parts.
* Penetrating oil: To loosen rusted bolts.
* New wheel bearing and race (hub assembly): It's usually easier and recommended to replace the entire hub assembly rather than just the bearing itself.
* Grease: For packing the new bearing.
* Clean rags: For cleaning parts.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Jack up the car and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the brake caliper and hang it out of the way using wire or a bungee cord. Do NOT let the brake line hang freely.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire if your Cavalier has ABS.
5. Disconnect Sway Bar Link: Disconnect the sway bar link from the control arm.
6. Separate Ball Joint: This is often the most challenging part. Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm.
7. Remove Tie Rod End (if necessary): Depending on your access, you might need to separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Use a tie rod end separator.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: This often involves removing several bolts holding the hub assembly to the steering knuckle. The hub assembly is usually a single unit containing the wheel bearing and race.
9. Install New Hub Assembly: Pack the new hub assembly with grease (if required, check your manual). Install the new hub assembly, making sure it seats correctly.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall the tie rod end (if removed), ball joint, sway bar link, brake caliper, and wheel. Tighten all bolts to the correct torque specifications as listed in your repair manual. Improper torque can cause premature failure or damage.
11. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car to the ground.
12. Torque Lug Nuts: Tighten lug nuts to the correct torque specifications.
13. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly vs. Bearing: Replacing the entire hub assembly is generally easier and more reliable than trying to replace just the bearing.
* Torque Specifications: Adhering to the correct torque specifications is crucial for safety and proper function. Use a torque wrench!
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications.
This is a simplified overview. Again, consult a repair manual and if you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed wheel bearings can lead to catastrophic failure and serious injury.
