Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and ratchet: Various sizes will be needed, likely including metric sockets.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening to avoid damage.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed to separate parts.
* Pry bar: Might be helpful for stubborn components.
* Penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster or similar): Essential for loosening rusted or seized bolts. Apply liberally and let it soak for a while.
* Hub removal tool: This specialized tool helps remove the old hub assembly without damage. Rent or buy one – trying to improvise is risky.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To keep things clean.
* New hub assembly: Ensure you buy the correct part for your specific truck.
* New wheel bearings (often included with the assembly): These almost always should be replaced when you change the hub.
Procedure (General Steps - Consult Your Repair Manual for Specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the rear wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts slightly before jacking up the truck. Jack up the truck and secure it on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use a caliper support tool to hang the caliper out of the way. This prevents stress on the brake hose. Some calipers may require removal of the brake line; be careful and consult your repair manual.
4. Remove the Rotor: The rotor may be held on by bolts or just friction. If bolts are present, remove them. If it's friction, use a rotor puller.
5. Remove the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wiring harness.
6. Remove the Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: The castle nut secures the hub assembly to the spindle. Remove the cotter pin, then the castle nut using a socket and ratchet.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: This is where the hub removal tool is crucial. The tool engages the hub and allows you to press it off the spindle. This may require considerable force.
8. Install the New Hub Assembly: This is the reverse of removal. Make sure the new bearings are properly seated and lubricated.
9. Reinstall Everything: Reinstall the rotor, caliper, ABS sensor, wheel, and lug nuts (torque to spec!), ensuring everything is correctly aligned and tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
10. Lower the Vehicle and Test: Lower the vehicle carefully and test the brakes and wheel for proper function. Double-check your lug nuts are properly torqued after a short test drive.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and seized parts: The biggest challenge is often rusted or seized bolts and components. Penetrating lubricant is your friend. Be prepared to apply it several times and let it soak. Use heat if necessary (carefully!) to help break things loose.
* Torque specifications: Using the correct torque wrench and following the manufacturer's torque specifications for all bolts and nuts is essential to avoid damage and ensure safety.
* Professional help: If you are uncomfortable with any part of this process, take your Silverado to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can lead to serious safety hazards.
This is a simplified overview. A detailed repair manual is absolutely essential for a successful and safe repair. Again, consult your repair manual before attempting this repair.
