How hard are the wheel bearings/hub to replace on a '06? - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Shaocaholica · 08-04-2011, 07:57 PM

I think one or more wheel bearings are failing on my '06 LE. I saw a video of someone replacing a bearing by pulling it out of the hub with special tool which I don't have. Would be just be less painful to just replace the whole hub? Does anyone know where I can get the part number(s) for the hubs?

Edit: Err, do the bearings and hub always come separate? Am I going to need special tools reguardless?

invader · 08-04-2011, 08:02 PM

Front or rear?

Shaocaholica · 08-04-2011, 08:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by invader

Front or rear?

Don't know yet. I'll try to check. I think its the front but I'm not 100% sure. Is there a way to tell front/rear and right/left?

invader · 08-04-2011, 08:16 PM

Jack up the front and check bearing free play. My front bearings always last about 60000 miles, rears are still fine at 139000 miles. Front steering knuckles have to be removed to press the old bearings out and press the new bearings in. It then needs an alignment. Rear bearing hubs are easier to replace.
Do you hear a bearing growling, and does the noise change when you turn at higher speeds? If the noise gets louder when you turn right, it's the front left bearing, and vice versa.

Shaocaholica · 08-04-2011, 08:52 PM

So am I going to need special tools to pull and install new bearings?

invader · 08-04-2011, 09:19 PM

Steering knuckles have to be brought to a dealership with specific pullers or hydraulic press with proper adapters, or at a machine shop to press the bearings out and in. You then need a front wheel alignment.
You may be able to at least remove and reinstall your steering knuckles.

Shaocaholica · 08-04-2011, 11:18 PM

Hmmm. Do most competent tire shops have these bearing tools?

invader · 08-04-2011, 11:23 PM

No. Only well established car dealership or professional specialized service centers, and some machine shops are properly equipped. New bearings are easily damaged when pressed in if not done right.

invader · 08-04-2011, 11:35 PM

Which part of Los Angeles are you in?

You could inquire at some of these:

http://www.ocautoservice.com/Los_Ang...eles&Submit=GO

http://www.ocautoservice.com/Los_Angeles_Alignment.asp