The process of greasing wheel bearings involves removing the old grease and packing the bearings with fresh grease to ensure smooth rotation and prevent wear. Here's a step-by-step guide, encompassing two common methods:
Method 1: Using a Wheel Bearing Packer
This is considered the most efficient and effective way to grease wheel bearings.
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Preparation:
- Jack up the vehicle and safely secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheel and brake components to access the hub.
- Remove the grease cap and cotter pin securing the spindle nut.
- Loosen and remove the spindle nut.
- Carefully pull the hub assembly off the spindle. Be prepared to catch the outer bearing, which will likely come loose.
- Remove the inner bearing and grease seal from the hub. You may need a seal puller for this.
- Clean all parts thoroughly with solvent and a brush, then dry with a clean rag. Inspect the bearings for any signs of wear, damage, or discoloration. Replace if necessary.
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Packing the Bearings:
- Place a bearing in the wheel bearing packer.
- Fill the packer with high-quality wheel bearing grease.
- Operate the packer lever (or pump) to force grease through the bearing until it emerges from the other side. This ensures the grease penetrates all the rollers and races.
- Remove the greased bearing from the packer.
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Reassembly:
- Apply a small amount of grease to the inside of the hub where the bearings sit.
- Install the inner bearing into the hub.
- Use a bearing race and seal driver to install a new grease seal. Drive the seal in until it is flush with the hub.
- Carefully slide the hub assembly back onto the spindle.
- Install the outer bearing.
- Install the spindle washer and nut.
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Bearing Adjustment:
- Tighten the spindle nut to a specific torque (refer to your vehicle's service manual). This is typically a moderate tightening to seat the bearings.
- Loosen the nut completely.
- Tighten the nut finger-tight.
- Install a new cotter pin through the spindle and nut. If the cotter pin holes don't align, loosen the nut slightly until they do. Never tighten the nut to align the holes.
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Final Steps:
- Install the grease cap.
- Reinstall the brake components and wheel.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Repeat the process for the other wheel.
Method 2: Hand Packing
This method is more time-consuming and potentially less effective, but can be used if a bearing packer is unavailable.
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Preparation: Follow steps 1 from Method 1.
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Packing the Bearings:
- Place a glob of wheel bearing grease in the palm of your hand.
- Hold the bearing in your other hand.
- Force the wide end of the bearing into the grease.
- Work the grease into the bearing by pressing down and "smearing" the grease into the rollers and races. The goal is to force old grease out while packing in new grease. Continue until grease appears on the opposite side of the bearing.
- Rotate the bearing and repeat until the entire bearing is thoroughly packed.
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Reassembly: Follow steps 3-5 from Method 1.
Important Considerations:
- Use the correct type of grease: Always use a high-quality wheel bearing grease that is compatible with your vehicle's specifications.
- Cleanliness is crucial: Dirt and debris can contaminate the grease and cause premature bearing failure.
- Proper adjustment is essential: Incorrect bearing adjustment can lead to overheating and bearing damage.
- Consult your vehicle's service manual: Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures.
