However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline. Remember, this is a general guide and might not cover every specific detail for your particular vehicle. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Dodge Stratus for precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. A factory service manual is your best bet.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* 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.
* Tie rod end separator: To separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed for stubborn components.
* Penetrating oil: To loosen rusted bolts.
* Press or bearing puller: Essential for removing and installing the wheel bearing. A press is ideal but a slide hammer puller can sometimes work.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* New wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Grease: Pack the new bearing with the correct type of grease.
* Shop rags: To keep things clean.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure: Safely jack up the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the wheel and tire.
4. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper and carefully hang it out of the way using wire or a bungee cord. Don't let the brake line hang.
5. Disconnect Tie Rod End: Use a tie rod end separator to disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Mark the position before disconnecting to ensure correct reinstallation.
6. Disconnect Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm.
7. Remove the Steering Knuckle: Depending on your Stratus, you may need to remove other components (like ABS sensors) to access the knuckle. Unbolt and remove the steering knuckle assembly.
8. Remove Old Bearing: This is the most challenging part. You'll need a press or a bearing puller to remove the old bearing from the knuckle. Be careful not to damage the knuckle.
9. Install New Bearing: Using a press (preferably), carefully install the new wheel bearing into the knuckle. Ensure it's seated correctly. Pack the bearing with grease.
10. Reassembly: Carefully reassemble everything in reverse order of disassembly. Pay close attention to the order of components and any shims.
11. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. This is crucial to prevent premature failure and ensure safe operation.
12. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
13. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle to check for any noises or unusual handling characteristics.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensors: Be very careful with the ABS sensors if your vehicle is equipped with them. Damage to these sensors can lead to ABS malfunction.
* Wheel Bearing Races: Often, the inner and outer races are integral parts of the hub assembly. You might not be replacing individual bearings but the entire hub assembly. Again, your repair manual will clarify this.
* Torque Specs: Incorrect torque can lead to premature bearing failure or damage to other components. Get the correct specifications from your repair manual.
* Preload: Proper bearing preload is essential. Incorrect preload can lead to premature bearing failure or damage. Your repair manual will explain this.
This is a complex repair. If you're unsure about any step, do not proceed. Consult a qualified mechanic to avoid potential damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. A repair manual will be invaluable throughout the process.
