GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 28733-B Front Hub Spindle Remover

Notice: Do not remove nut at this time. Failure to follow the proper sequence of removal may cause permanent bearing damage.

  1. Raise and suitable support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Loosen the drive shaft axle nut one revolution.
  4. Remove the caliper bracket. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Bracket Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  5. Remove the brake rotor. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  6. Remove the drive axle shaft nut. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement and/or Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Driveline/Axle.
  7. Loosen the bolts attaching the front wheel drive shaft bearing to the knuckle.
  8. Use the J 28733-B to push the axle splines back out of the front wheel drive shaft bearing.
  9. Remove the bolts which attach the front wheel drive shaft bearing to the knuckle.
  10. Important: Protect the drive shaft axle seals (boots) from damage during handling.

  11. Remove the front wheel drive shaft bearing.
  12. Inspect all the components for wear or damage.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the front wheel drive shaft bearing onto the axle shaft splines.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install new bolts which attach the knuckle to the front wheel drive shaft bearing.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the drive shaft bearing bolts to 130 N·m (96 lb ft).

  5. Install the brake rotor. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  6. Install the caliper bracket. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Bracket Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  7. Install the new drive axle nut. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement and/or Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Driveline/Axle.
  8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  9. Lower the vehicle.