If you’ve ever tried to change a wheel bearing, you know how frustrating it can be to get the old one off and on. It’s not just that they’re tough to remove; it’s also hard to get the new one in place.

The first thing you need to do is determine what type of bearing you have and what size it is. Some bearings are held in place by a snap ring, others by a circlip or cotter pin. If the bearing is held with a snap ring, you’ll need a snap ring pliers (this tool looks like a pair of pliers but has a groove in one end where the ring fits). If it has a circlip or cotter pin, use an adjustable wrench or vice grips (torque-wrench if possible) to remove it.

Then there are two more things: lubrication and holding tools. You’ll want some grease or oil for lubricating the new bearing, but this isn’t something that comes standard with all tools sets. The best thing is to buy some lithium grease at an auto parts store (or other hardware store), because it works well even at low temperatures and doesn’t wash away as easily as petroleum-based products do when exposed.

Last modified: October 25, 2022