Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket set
- Hammer
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pry bar
- Replacement front wheel bearing and hub assembly
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vehicle:
- Engage the parking brake and put the parking gear on (for automatic transmission) or first gear (for manual transmission).
- Loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use a jack and jack stands to lift the front end of the vehicle, ensuring it's securely supported.
3. Remove the Lug Nuts and Wheel:
- Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Locate the brake caliper on the back of the wheel hub assembly.
- Remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place and set the caliper aside.
- Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line.
5. Remove the Brake Rotor:
- Slide off the brake rotor from the hub assembly.
6. Pry Off the Dust Cap:
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or a pry bar to pry off the dust cap covering the front wheel bearing.
7. Remove the Snap Ring:
- Locate the snap ring that holds the bearing and hub assembly in place.
- Use a flat head screwdriver to pry out the snap ring from its groove.
8. Disassemble the Hub Assembly:
- Use a hammer to gently tap on the hub assembly around its edges to help loosen it.
- The entire assembly should slide off the spindle.
9. Separate the Bearing from the Hub:
- Using a hammer and flat-head screwdriver, carefully pry the bearing out of the hub assembly.
- Be cautious not to damage the hub assembly or the new bearing.
10. Clean the Hub:
- Thoroughly clean the hub and spindle to remove any dirt, grease, or debris.
- This ensures proper seating and functioning of the new bearing.
11. Install the New Bearing:
- Place the new bearing into the hub assembly.
- Make sure it is properly seated and flush with the hub surface.
12. Reinstall the Hub Assembly:
- Carefully slide the hub assembly back onto the spindle.
- Gently tap the hub with a hammer to ensure it's fully seated.
13. Install the Snap Ring:
- Reinstall the snap ring into the groove on the spindle to secure the bearing and hub assembly.
14. Reassemble the Brake Components:
- Replace the brake rotor and reinstall the brake caliper.
15. Reinstall the Wheel and Lug Nuts:
- Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
16. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower the vehicle back down using the jack and jack stands.
17. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until they are snug.
18. Test the Wheel:
- Spin the wheel to ensure it rotates smoothly without any grinding or unusual sounds.
19. Road Test:
- Take the vehicle for a short road test to ensure the wheel bearing is functioning correctly.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace the front wheel bearing on your 2002 Chevy Monte Carlo with rear-wheel drive. Remember to always take safety precautions when working on your vehicle and refer to the vehicle's service manual if needed.
