wheel bearings

[drewmitch44]

im wondering if I really need a press in order to replace the sealed type wheel bearings? I have the bearings for the front end of my car but I was told that there is a press that should be used to change them out. Its a 2000 hyundai elantra. Thanks for any help guys.

 

[puddle jumper]

Re: wheel bearings

You can replace sealed wheel bearings with a big punch and hammer. Its not easy to do but can be done. Using a press makes it a lot easier with less chance of damaging the spindle.

 

[drewmitch44]

Re: wheel bearings

ok how big of a punch? And what do I do just kinda go around and around tapping it trying to get it on even? and how to get old ones off? and do I use any greese like im used too with repacking old bearings.

 

[drewmitch44]

Re: wheel bearings

?????

 

[puddle jumper]

Re: wheel bearings

Wow you replied to my post faster than I thought. Basically just like you said. you will need a bout a 8 inch punch with about a 2 pound hammer.First you will have to probably have to remove the spindle to get at the bearing. Make sure that if there is any snap rings holding it in that it is removed.Use blocks to get the spindle level and usually a couple of good hits will get it out. Just be careful because you can hurt the spindle if not removed squarely. That's why a press works so much better.

When installing the bearing you only want to tap on the out side race and has to be installed square. Again a press works better.

On a sealed bearing there is no need for grease as its sealed inside the bearing and dust seals already. You will see when you get the new one.

 

[DJ]

Re: wheel bearings

You have to buy a new car.



Just Kidding.


I would have a parts store press them out/in.

Sealed bearings can be damaged, easily, with a punch/drift.

 

[Stachi]

Re: wheel bearings

You have to buy a new car.



Just Kidding.


I would have a parts store press them out/in.

Sealed bearings can be damaged, easily, with a punch/drift.

I agree with having them pressed out and in

 

[ChevelleSSLS6]

Re: wheel bearings

im wondering if I really need a press in order to replace the sealed type wheel bearings? I have the bearings for the front end of my car but I was told that there is a press that should be used to change them out. Its a 2000 hyundai elantra. Thanks for any help guys.

www.mibearings.com click on the left "bearings by make" and it'll have a few common applications. There should be a little space to put in what your car is and they'll get back to you on it. I did it and they got back to me the next day.

They use timken bearings, and the rest of it is machined right here in the USA. Prices are comparable to the imported parts store stuff (usually cheapest their corporate offices can find).

 

[drewmitch44]

Re: wheel bearings

I agree with having them pressed out and in

Ok that sounds like my best option! But how? Do the spindles just come off? I realize that It is a front wheel drive and it has half axles but do I have to mess with the cv joints to get the spindles to the parts store? I have replaced cv joints before and I dont want to mess with them unless I have too. I thought the spindles were a permenant thing on the axle. Can someone explain it to me. Sorry I am so dumb about this. Im used to the inner and outer bearings and repacking new ones and installing. THANKS!!!

 

[DECK SWABBER 58]

Re: wheel bearings

Drewmitch44 VERY MUCH understand your dismay.

Repacking inner and outer's on a rear whl. dr. is easy and fun!!
Ya get all greasy.

OK here goes. Not picturing a Hyundai specifically in my head
just a typical fwd.

1st: With tire on ground loosen axle nut. It's tight, use a 1/2
breaker bar with a pipe if necessary.
2nd: Remove brake caliper, disconnect outer tie rod, lower ball joint and stabalizer bar.
Then you are going to have to separate the strut however it connects to the spindle (steering knuckle).

Basically what you are doing is removing the steering knuckle that
the tire/brake rotor is attached to. The axle shaft goes through the
middle of the hub which is what that god awful bearing spins on.
You have to totally dismantle the entire front suspension on whatever
side the bad bearing is on to do this.

It's not a particularly fun job but just think about all the satisfaction
you will have after completing the job correctly.

 

[Stachi]

Re: wheel bearings

The safest way to do this is to have a local ASE certified shop do it for you.....at my shop we have a $400.00 bearing replacement kit that allows us to replace the bearings without even removing the spindle...it is easier and safer to use than a press ....if you have ever tried to set a spindle up in a press you would see how hard it is to support it safely , and without damaging the bearing or the spindle.....the spindle CAN be bent and throw off alignment....have this done by an experienced shop.

 

[KRS]

Re: wheel bearings

Take them to a local shop and just pay labor to have them pressed out, and the new ones pressed in.

If you're willing to do the rest of the work, then it'll save you $$$ and you'll learn more about your car.

KRS