Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement wheel studs (the same size and thread as the original)
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench
- Breaker bar
- Pry bar
- Hammer
Procedure:
1. Remove the Lug Nuts and Wheel:
- Use the lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts on the affected wheel.
- Remove the wheel to expose the wheel studs.
2. Pry Off the Dust Cap (if present):
- If there is a dust cap covering the center of the wheel hub, pry it off using a pry bar.
3. Remove the Brake Drum (if applicable):
- If the rear wheels have drum brakes, you may need to remove the brake drum to access the wheel studs.
- To remove the brake drum, use a pry bar to pry it off carefully, being cautious not to damage the brake shoes or wheel cylinder.
4. Remove the Old Wheel Studs:
- Locate the old wheel studs on the wheel hub.
- Use a breaker bar and the appropriate socket to turn the wheel studs counterclockwise to loosen and remove them.
- If the wheel studs are rusted, you may need to use penetrating oil or heat to loosen them.
5. Seat the Replacement Wheel Studs:
- Take the replacement wheel studs and insert them into the holes on the wheel hub.
- Hand-tighten the replacement wheel studs until they are snug.
6. Tighten the Wheel Studs:
- Use the breaker bar and the appropriate socket to tighten the replacement wheel studs in a star pattern (tightening each stud a bit at a time until they are fully tightened).
- Tighten the wheel studs to the manufacturer's specified torque (typically around 65-75 ft-lbs).
7. Replace the Brake Drum (if applicable):
- If you removed the brake drum, carefully place it back onto the wheel hub and make sure it is seated properly.
8. Reinstall the Wheel and Lug Nuts:
- Place the wheel back onto the vehicle.
- Reinstall the lug nuts and hand-tighten them.
- Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until they are snug.
9. Lower the Vehicle:
- Lower the vehicle using the jack.
Important Notes:
- Make sure to buy the correct wheel studs for your Impala, as they may vary in size and thread pattern.
- Before driving the car, ensure the wheel studs are securely tightened to prevent the wheel from coming loose.
