I actually need to know how to remove the seal from the old bearing and install the new one. Getting the axel out of the way has me stumped.How do I change a Wheel bearing on a 1989 Chevy Cavalier?
This procedure requires the use of a number of special tools.
Raise and safely support the vehicle with jackstands. Place the jackstands under the frame so that the front suspension hangs freely.
Remove the front tire and wheel assembly.
If a silicone (gray) boot is used on the inboard axle joint, place boot seal protector J-33162 or equivalent. If a thermoplastic (black) boot is used, no seal protector is necessary.
Insert a drift punch through the rotor cooling vanes to lock the rotor in place and remove the hub nut and washer. Clean the drive axle threads of all dirt and grease. Discard the nut and washer.
Fig. 1: Insert a drift into the rotor when removing the hub nut
Separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle as outlined in this section.
Attach a puller, G.M. part no. J-28733 or the equivalent, and remove the bearing. If corrosion is present, make sure the bearing is loose in the knuckle before using the puller.
Move the axle shaft inward and support at an angle near the normal drive angle.
Remove the brake caliper and rotor, as follows:
Remove the caliper mounting bolts.
Remove the caliper from the knuckle and suspend from a length of wire. Do not allow the caliper to hang from the brake hose. Pull the rotor from the knuckle.
Unfasten the three hub and bearing attaching bolts. If the old bearing is to be reused, match mark the bolts and holes for installation. If equipped, the brake rotor splash shield will have to come off, too.
Clean the mating surfaces of all dirt and corrosion. Check the knuckle bore and knuckle seal for damage. If a new bearing is to be installed, remove and discard the old knuckle seal and replace with a new one during installation.
Fig. 2: Exploded view of the hub and bearing assembly and related components - 1989 vehicle shown
To install:
Position the hub and bearing assembly and splash shield (if equipped) on the steering knuckle and install the retaining bolts. Tighten the bolts to 70 ft. lbs. (95 Nm).
Grease the lips of the new seal before installation; install with a seal driver made for the purpose, G.M. tool no. J-28671 or the equivalent.
Fig. 3: Use a seal driver when installing the new seal into the steering knuckle
Install the rotor and caliper. Be sure that the caliper hose isn't twisted. Install the caliper bolts and tighten to 21-38 ft. lbs. (28-51 Nm).
Position the axle shaft into the hub and bearing assembly.
Insert a drift in the rotor, then install a new hub nut and washer. Use a torque wrench to tighten the nut to 185 ft. lbs. (260 Nm).
Fasten the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
Remove the drift and the boot seal protector (if used).
Install the wheel and tire assembly, then carefully lower the vehicles.
