Here's a general outline. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact DeVille model. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, including metric and possibly SAE.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
* Pickle fork (or better yet, a ball joint press): To separate the ball joint (use caution with a pickle fork as it can damage the ball joint).
* Brake caliper piston compressor: To compress the caliper piston to allow for caliper removal.
* Hammer and punches: Possibly needed to help break things loose.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening of bolts to prevent damage.
* New wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your DeVille.
* New cotter pin and nut: Often included with the new bearing.
* Wheel bearing packer: Helpful for properly packing the new bearing with grease. (Not always necessary depending on the bearing type)
* Clean rags or shop towels
General Steps (This is a simplified overview; consult your repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications):
1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle with wheel chocks and park on a level surface. Engage the parking brake.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car. Jack up the car and securely support it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use the caliper piston compressor to retract the brake caliper piston. Remove the caliper and hang it out of the way, avoiding stress on the brake line.
4. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Use the ball joint separator (or ball joint press) to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
5. Remove the Steering Knuckle: This step often involves removing several bolts and possibly a sway bar link. Consult your repair manual for the specific procedure.
6. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing: This is typically a pressed-in bearing. You'll need to use a suitable bearing puller or press to remove it. This is often the most challenging part of the job.
7. Install the New Wheel Bearing: Carefully press the new bearing into place, ensuring it's seated correctly. Make sure the new bearing is properly lubricated.
8. Reassemble Everything: Carefully reassemble all components in the reverse order of disassembly, paying close attention to torque specifications from your repair manual. This includes the steering knuckle, ball joint, brake caliper, and wheel.
9. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications. This is absolutely critical to prevent premature bearing failure and safety issues.
10. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle carefully to ensure the repair was successful. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly: Some DeVille models might have an integrated hub assembly that needs to be replaced rather than just the bearing itself. Check your repair manual.
* ABS Sensors: If your DeVille has anti-lock brakes (ABS), you'll need to be careful with the ABS sensor and its wiring.
* Rust: On older vehicles, rusted bolts can be very difficult to remove. Use penetrating oil liberally and allow it to soak in.
Again, this is a highly simplified overview. A repair manual specific to your 1991 Cadillac DeVille is absolutely essential. Attempting this repair without the proper information and tools can lead to damage to your vehicle or even personal injury. If you're not comfortable with this level of car repair, it's best to have a professional mechanic do the job.
