Here's a general overview of the process. Remember, this is a simplified guide and specific steps may vary slightly depending on your vehicle's exact configuration. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Cavalier (a Haynes or Chilton manual is recommended) for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed to help remove parts.
* Wheel bearing press: Absolutely crucial for pressing out the old bearing and pressing in the new one. Trying to do this with a hammer and punch will likely damage the bearing and hub assembly.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): Helps loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specifications.
* New wheel bearing: Make sure you get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Grease: For packing the new bearing.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from injury.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Jack up the car securely and 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 carefully hang it out of the way. You might need to support it with a wire or bungee cord.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): If your car has ABS, carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This nut is usually very tight; you'll likely need a breaker bar or impact wrench.
6. Separate the Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to separate the lower ball joint from the control arm.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: Once the ball joint is disconnected, the hub assembly (containing the wheel bearing) should come off. This may require some gentle persuasion with a hammer and punch, but be extremely careful not to damage the axle.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: This is where the wheel bearing press is essential. Use the press to carefully remove the old bearing from the hub assembly.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to install the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated correctly and firmly.
10. Pack the New Bearing with Grease: Pack the new bearing with grease according to the manufacturer's instructions.
11. Reassembly: Carefully reverse the disassembly steps, ensuring all components are properly aligned and tightened to the correct torque specifications (refer to your repair manual). Pay close attention to the axle nut torque. A improperly tightened axle nut can cause catastrophic failure.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, perform a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly. Listen carefully for any unusual noises from the wheel.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly Replacement: Sometimes, the entire hub assembly is replaced instead of just the bearing. This is often simpler and more reliable, especially if the hub is showing wear.
* ABS Sensor: Be extremely careful with the ABS sensor. Damage to it can lead to ABS system malfunctions.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque specifications is critical for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Consult your repair manual.
This is a complex repair. If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Attempting this repair without the necessary experience and tools could lead to damage to your vehicle or serious injury.
