Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage. If you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the truck.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the truck from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing the wheel nuts and axle nut much easier. A breaker bar might be needed if you don't have an impact wrench.
* Socket set: Various sizes, including those for the axle nut, caliper bolts, and cotter pin.
* Hammer and punch: For removing cotter pins and possibly stubborn components.
* Wheel bearing press: This is crucial for safely pressing the old bearing out and the new one in. Trying to do this with a hammer and punch will likely damage the hub and bearing.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts and nuts to the correct specifications.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To keep things clean.
* New wheel bearings and seals: Make sure you get the correct parts for your specific truck model and year.
* Optional: Axle nut socket (if not included in your socket set). This is often a larger, special size.
* Optional: Caliper compression tool: Makes compressing the caliper piston easier and safer.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the rear wheels, and raise the truck securely using the jack and jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts (usually two) and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line. If you need to compress the caliper piston, use a caliper compression tool to avoid damaging the seals.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor. It may be held on by bolts or simply slide off.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a very large nut. Use your impact wrench or breaker bar to loosen and remove it. Note the position of the axle nut and any washers.
6. Remove the Hub Assembly: The hub assembly (containing the bearing) may come off fairly easily after removing the axle nut, or it might require some persuasion with a hammer and punch. Be careful not to damage the axle shaft.
7. Press Out the Old Bearing: Use your wheel bearing press to carefully press the old wheel bearing out of the hub assembly.
8. Replace the Seals: Replace any damaged seals in the hub.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to carefully press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall the hub assembly, axle nut (tightening to the specified torque), rotor, caliper, and wheel. Remember the washer placement from step 5. Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque – it's critical.
11. Torque Specifications: Consult your repair manual for the proper torque specifications for the axle nut, caliper bolts, and lug nuts. Incorrect torque can lead to failure.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
13. Test Drive: Test drive your truck, listening carefully for any unusual noises from the wheel bearing area.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: If your truck has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), you may need to disconnect and reconnect the ABS sensor during this process. Be careful not to damage it.
* Rust and Corrosion: On older vehicles, rusted or seized components can make this job significantly more difficult. Use penetrating oil liberally and allow ample time for it to work.
* Parts: Ensure you are using the correct wheel bearings and seals for your vehicle.
This guide provides a general overview. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 2003 Chevy Silverado 4x4 for detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications. This is a complex repair, and if you are unsure about any step, seeking professional help is strongly recommended.
