I had to replace the right-rear on our '98 at 38,500 miles, it was making lots of noise. Since the axle nut applies the bearing pre-load, it's important to use the correct torque. If you own a torque wrench, it's kinda silly NOT to use it.

 

I replaced both of the rear wheel bearings this weekend. The were definitely in bad shape. Most of the noise went away, but I still have some noise (humming, whining) and I can't pinpoint it as front or rear. I'm wondering if the front bearings need to be replaced too.

 

how difficult was the job?


was anything rusted together?

 

You don't even want to begin to try to mess with the screws that hold the hub in unless you have a torch and a lot of patience. It took me three seperate attempts over 2 days to finally get it off.

 

It was extremely easy. I was expecting a rough DIY, but I didn't even need a hammer. You take the wheel off, then the drum (just the drum, you don't have to take your brakes apart at all) you undo the safety notch on the nut and then remove the nut.

I do recommend that you use an impact wrench, air or electric. I used and electric, not very powerfull, yet it took the nut off in less than a second. After removing the nut, the wheel bearing assembly simply, really simply, just slid out. I was amazed for such an important part was so easy to remove.

I used a the impact wrench tool tighten the bolt almost to where it was, the I used the torque wrench to finish it.

 

You seem to have an EX. Mine is an LX so the rear has drums. One nut holds the whole thing in place.

 

That's what I thought. :happysad:

 

I have an LX-V6 as it says in my signature. e3 also has rear discs.

The directions on how to remove both are in my TSB thread.

 

Sorry, must have had a dyslexic moment there.

It was you TSB thread that encourged me to do it myself. Thank man!

 

No problem. I had to enlist a friend/mechanic to help me get the four asinine screws out of the disc for $10 (well, more of a mechanic than a friend ) because I was getting waaay too frustrated.