I had new tires put on yesterday and the shop said they couldn't align my '99 Blazer because I had a bad front hub. To demonstrate, the mechanic rattled the wheel back and forth slightly. How can one tell the hub is bad versus a rim?

I assume this isn't uncommon with 114K on the odometer?

How hard is this to replace yourself? Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Rick

 

A rim would not rattle back and forth. With the front end elevated, if you can feel play up when pushing/pulling on the wheel with your hands at 12 and 6 o'clock, then it is a bad wheel bearing. If, with your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock, you feel play, then it could be a bad steering component or a bad wheel bearing.

As far as the replacement, you can basically follow the how-to for a 4wd posted in the DIY section as it is basically the same minus the axle nut/shaft. Remove the brakes (caliper & rotor remembering to support the caliper with something other than the brake line), disconnect the ABS sensor, remove the 3 bolts holding the hub on and remove the hub. Reinstall in reverse.

 

Thank you for the very fast response. That is exactly what was done. Hands were in the 12 and 6 o'clock position and there was a small amount of play back and forth.

A wheel bearing is cheaper than a new HUB.

 

I believe that on a '99 the hub/bearing assembly is sealed, requiring replacement. It also has the ABS sensor with it.

 

Thanks for the additional info, although not what I wanted to hear I think a replacement at Autozone will go for a little over $200.

Again, appreciate the tips as I try to troubleshoot and replace for as little as possible.

Rick

 

I'm replacing mine in a few weeks, and Advance Auto Parts has them for $156 apiece.

 

Well, I checked again tonight. There is definitely a small amount of play in the front passenger hub. So if there is any movement at all in the 12 and 6 position, it means the hub needs to be replaced?

 

Sadly, yes.

 

Ok thanks. I may end up having to do both sides.

 

Any tips for getting a rusted rotor off? I'm into the hug replacement job and can't get the rotor off. I don't want to pound on the dust shield so its limiting my ability to pound on the rotor with a rubber mallet.

So far I have removed the brake pads, and caliper brackets. Shouldn't the rotor come off at this point?

Thanks,

Rick