front hub outer locknut

[dwg0214]

I am trying to replace a bad front rotor. In order to remove the rotor the hub assembly has to be removed first, but I can't remove the outer locknut. I am following the book, but it isn't very clear on this point. Does anyone have any experience with this?

[dfforbes]

I'm right there with you -- trying to remove the locknut on a 2002 Echo. I've "unstaked" the locknut and am searching for a 12-point socket to remove it. This is odd; on other cars I have worked on, these are whimpy cover locknuts with the real nut beneath. This doesn't seem to be like that.

I too am confused. If I figure it out, I'll get back to you.

[dwg0214]

Originally Posted by dfforbes

I'm right there with you -- trying to remove the locknut on a 2002 Echo. I've "unstaked" the locknut and am searching for a 12-point socket to remove it. This is odd; on other cars I have worked on, these are whimpy cover locknuts with the real nut beneath. This doesn't seem to be like that.

I too am confused. If I figure it out, I'll get back to you.

[dwg0214]

I figured it out. If your echo is similar, here's what I did.
1. bent back the lock washer with a straight screwdriver and hammer. This is a 5 point soft washer behind the nut, that was folded over the lock nut.
2. used the same screw driver and hammered a notch into the locknut then just kept hammering and loosened the locknut. A friend told me, after the fact, this isn't unusual. The locknut is soft enough, and there isn't a torque spec.

When reassembling, just hand tighten and use the screwdriver and hammer to snug it up.

Good luck, I hope this helps.

[dwg0214]

Oh, I forgot. fold the lock washer back over the nut best as you can