Front Knuckle/Hub/Wheel Bearing Replacement

  1. Remove the driveshaft outboard joint (A) from the knuckle (B) by tapping the driveshaft end (C) with a soft face hammer while drawing the hub outward, then remove the knuckle/hub.
    NOTE:
    • Do not pull the driveshaft end outward. The driveshaft inboard joint may come apart.
    • During installation, apply grease to the mating surfaces of the wheel bearing and the driveshaft outboard joint.
  1. Install the knuckle/hub in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    • First install all the components, and lightly tighten the bolts and the nuts, then raise the suspension to load it with the vehicle's weight before fully tightening to the specified torque values. Do not place the jack against the ball joint pin of the knuckle.
    • Be careful not to damage the ball joint boot when connecting the knuckle.
    • Before connecting the ball joint, degrease the threaded section and the tapered portion of the ball joint pin, and the ball joint connecting hole, and the threaded section and the mating surfaces of the castle nut.
    • Torque the castle nut to the lower torque specification, then tighten it only far enough to align the slot with the ball joint pin hole. Do not align the castle nut by loosening it.
    • Use a new spindle nut on reassembly.
    • Before installing the spindle nut, apply a small amount of engine oil to the seating surface of the nut. After tightening, use a drift to stake the spindle nut shoulder against the driveshaft.
    • Before installing the brake disc, clean the mating surfaces of the front hub and the inside of the brake disc.
    • Before installing the wheel, clean the mating surfaces of the brake disc and the inside of the wheel.
  1. Check the wheel alignment, and adjust it if necessary.