Question About Wheel Bearings

NJshadow93

NJshadow93

New member
Just yesterday, I developed slight steering wheel vibrations and humming noises that changes with wheel speed (not engine speed, also happens in neutral). With Firestone being the only place open on Sunday, I took it to them and they checked it out. I suspected the tires may have lost balance when I washed the wheels yesterday (thinking I may have knocked a weight loose and it fell off driving). I told them to check out the wheel bearings as well. They told me both front wheel bearings have slight play in it and I should take it to Toyota to get it checked out since they don't have the machine to properly balance the tires.

They didn't charge me for the (normally $10) inspection and sent me on my way with the light vibrations and humming noises. I plan on stopping by the dealer tomorrow.

So my question:

I just recently had two new, aftermarket CV axles installed. Are the wheel bearings part of the CV axles or are they something separate?

Thanks in advance.
 
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NJshadow93 said:
Thanks, that's what I figured.

Now my next question, how much should I expect to pay for both front bearings to be replaced (assuming that's my issue)?
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I didn't have the time to do my own, so I paid around $400 each installed by a toyota-Lexus specialty shop.
 
Just replaced mine with lifetime warranty napa hub assembly & wheel bearing for $170 each and it took me 35 minutes per side. C/v shaft goes through the wheel bearing with a center nut holding them tight. Which must be properly torqued. You should not have any play up and down in the wheel when jacked up with one hand on top and one on bottom.
 
LobstaMobsta said:
Just replaced mine with lifetime warranty napa hub assembly & wheel bearing for $170 each and it took me 35 minutes per side. C/v shaft goes through the wheel bearing with a center nut holding them tight. Which must be properly torqued. You should not have any play up and down in the wheel when jacked up with one hand on top and one on bottom.
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So you didn't have to press the bearing? It was all just unbolting and bolting? Any write ups?
 
The wheel bearings on my Tacoma were a real ***** to change. I had to take them and get them pressed out and press the new ones in
 
LobstaMobsta said:
No but it as a whole unit, 4 bolts plus center nut. Real quick and easy....no I've not done one but I could if there was interest!?
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A write up would be awesome if it isn't too much trouble. If not to me, I'm sure others will benefit from it well.

I'm taking my truck to the dealer tomorrow hoping to get some answers. If I do need to replace the bearings and they give me a ridiculous quote, I hope to replace the hub assembly myself if I can tackle it.

EDIT: Just found this awesome video! So I guess a write up won't be necessary lol

 
Last edited:
Just replaced mine last week. Piece of cake, and the youtube video was a great help. Axle nut was a 35mm, not 36 as stated. Took about an hour to replace. There is a seller on eBay selling the complete hub assemblies.
 
I think Lobsta's 35 min per side estimate is a bit ambitious especially for someone who hasn't pulled it apart before or someone that doesn't have the proper tools. That axle nut can be a challenge without and impact and you can also run into some difficulty getting the bearing off the knuckle.
 
So it turns out both of my bearings are on their way out, with the driver's side being worse. Dealer quoted me $675 each. I said no and they offered me a 15% discount. I still said no, that price is crazy. Picked up everything, hoping to do them tomorrow.

Napa hub bearing assemblies - $127 (2) - $254
Torque Wrench - $82
Chisel - $9
-Strap - $2

And I still need to get the 35mm socket for the axle nut. Do I need anything else like any seals or anything? Also, would I be able to reuse the cotter pins? If not, where would I get them?
 
Sungod said:
I think Lobsta's 35 min per side estimate is a bit ambitious especially for someone who hasn't pulled it apart before or someone that doesn't have the proper tools. That axle nut can be a challenge without and impact and you can also run into some difficulty getting the bearing off the knuckle.
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You may be right for the average shade tree mechanic. I do use impact removing center nut but never on install....proper torque is a must. But maybe 1 hour per side? As far as removing the hub from the knuckle a 2 lb maul should be used, hit one side of the hub out wards 4 times then switch sides....repeat. Hit it hard!!! I actually only replaced one side and they RARELY fail in pairs. I would be weary of that. Also I would prefer buying my hub assembly from a reputable dealer and get a lifetime warranty because next time it's free! And there will be a next time.....
 
NJshadow93 said:
So it turns out both of my bearings are on their way out, with the driver's side being worse. Dealer quoted me $675 each. I said no and they offered me a 15% discount. I still said no, that price is crazy. Picked up everything, hoping to do them tomorrow.

Napa hub bearing assemblies - $127 (2) - $254
Torque Wrench - $82
Chisel - $9
-Strap - $2

And I still need to get the 35mm socket for the axle nut. Do I need anything else like any seals or anything? Also, would I be able to reuse the cotter pins? If not, where would I get them?
Click to expand...

You will be able to reuse cotter pins...and yes there is an inner wheel bearing seal you will need. Napa part # NOS31897.....you will need basic socket set to remove brakes....and one large hammer. Always use jack stands ! B careful of speed sensor.
 
LobstaMobsta said:
You will be able to reuse cotter pins...and yes there is an inner wheel bearing seal you will need. Napa part # NOS31897.....you will need basic socket set to remove brakes....and one large hammer. Always use jack stands ! B careful of speed sensor.
Click to expand...

Where does the inner wheel bearing seal go? I bought the same type of assembly shown in the video above and they didn't mention a seal.
 
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