If you’re looking to replace the rear wheel bearing on your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, you’re in the right place. This guide will take you through the essential steps needed for a successful wheel bearing replacement.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
New rear wheel bearings (make sure they’re compatible with your model)
Socket set
Torque wrench
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Hammer
Pry bar
Brake cleaner
Grease
Safety glasses
Step-By-Step Instructions:
Safety First:
Before starting, make sure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety glasses.
Loosen the Lug Nuts:
Using a tire iron or socket wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel, but do not remove them just yet.
Jack Up the Vehicle:
Use a jack to lift the rear of the Silverado off the ground. Ensure it’s safely supported by jack stands.
Remove the Wheel:
Now, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheel to access the brake assembly.
Remove the Brake Caliper:
Unbolt the brake caliper and hang it securely (don’t let it dangle on the brake line).
Take Off the Rotor:
Remove the brake rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws and sliding it off the hub.
Access the Wheel Bearing:
Depending on your model, you may need to remove the dust cap and the retaining ring.
Remove the Old Wheel Bearing:
Use a hammer and a suitable-sized driver to help push out the old wheel bearing. Be careful not to damage the hub assembly.
Install the New Bearing:
Grease the new bearing slightly and carefully press it into place. Ensure it fits securely in the hub.
Reassemble:
Reverse the steps to reassemble everything you’ve removed. Make sure all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Test Drive:
Once everything is back together, take your Silverado for a test drive to ensure the work has been successful. Listen for any unusual noises.
Final Tip:
If you’re not comfortable working with wheel bearings, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic.
Replacing the rear wheel bearings on your Silverado can seem daunting, but with some patience and the right tools, you can get the job done. Happy wrenching!
Feel free to ask any questions if you run into issues during the replacement process!
To replace the rear wheel bearing on a 2018 Silverado, you’ll need a good set of tools: a socket set (like DEWALT’s 1/2-Inch Drive), torque wrench, floor jack, and bearing puller. Don’t forget about a hammer and some penetrating oil too.
Those are indeed great suggestions for tools and materials! But can anyone clarify if the wheel hub assembly is included in the SKF kit or do we need to buy that separately?
Great question! The SKF kit typically includes the bearings, but you’ll need to check the specifics for your part number. Sometimes the hub assembly is sold separately.
I think it’s also important to have a rubber mallet on hand for tapping. It’s quieter and less likely to damage parts. Plus, have some shop towels ready to clean up any grease spills!
Definitely! Don’t skimp on safety gear. Plus, it gives you that ‘professional mechanic’ look—just don’t tell your insurance agent about the ‘practice’ sessions!
Replacing the rear wheel bearing on a 2018 Silverado can seem daunting, but with the right tools, it’s manageable. Start by lifting the vehicle and removing the wheel. You’ll need a bearing puller kit for the old bearings. Make sure to also check the axle and seals while you’re in there!
Great tips! I also recommend taking pictures during disassembly. It helps a lot during reassembly to make sure everything goes back together correctly!
Don’t forget safety gear! Gloves and goggles are essential while working on your truck. Also, using penetrating oil on stubborn bolts can save you a lot of frustration.
Definitely true! It’s like magic sometimes. If you find bolts stripped, a bolt extractor can be a lifesaver. These little tricks really make the job smoother!
When pressing the new bearing in, ensure it’s aligned correctly to avoid any damage. Also, check the bearing seat for any debris before installation; it can cause premature failure otherwise.
Very important! I almost messed up my installation because of overlooking that. What tools do you guys recommend for pressing in the new bearings efficiently?
Using a hydraulic press is ideal. If you don’t have one, a well-placed hammer can work, but it requires precision. Just make sure you don’t hit it too hard or you might damage the bearing.
Remember to torque everything to specifications. Over-tightening can damage the components. I learned this the hard way after replacing mine last summer!