DIY Repair Rear Bearings ??? - Toyota Tundra Forums : Tundra Solutions Forum

chansw · #1 (**permalink**) 01-25-2007, 10:29 PM

Hello, I have a 3 questions regarding repairing my rear wheel bearings (both sides) on my 2001 Sienna (approx 133K miles on it, problem diagnosed by my dealer). The faster I go, the louder the bearings get (makes a "roaring" sound which increases in pitch as I go faster).

(1) How difficult is it to replace just the rear wheel bearings as opposed to the entire wheel hub assembly? According the the Haynes Repair Manual, the entire assembly should be replaced, but if that is so, I wonder why the OEM bearings are being sold separately?

(2) Are there any special tools required to remove the wheel hub assembly / get at the bearings?

(3) Anything that I need to watch out for in doing the repair (i.e., will I need a tire alignment afterwards, special torquing intructions, etc.)?

My dealer has quoted me $1050 for the repair (ouch). I am fairly adept at mechanical repairs, so I am not afraid to get my hands (and clothes) greasy.

If I can replace the rear bearings themselves, that will cost me $130 + shipping for OEM parts (from autobarnparts.com).

If I need to replace the wheel hub assembly (hub + bearings), the cost will be $280 (Timken brand -- are they OK?), $520 (OEM part from discounttoyotaparts.com), or $700 (marked up price from my dealer).

Your expert opinions are greatly appreciated!

Jerry

cookiemech · #2 (**permalink**) 01-26-2007, 10:42 AM

I checked the factory service manual and they merely say "replace the bearing" without any specific procedure. Not having one in front of me, I assume that it's a straightforward job, though you may need to use a hydraulic press. I'd give it a shot.

chansw · #3 (**permalink**) 01-26-2007, 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cookiemech

I checked the factory service manual and they merely say "replace the bearing" without any specific procedure. Not having one in front of me, I assume that it's a straightforward job, though you may need to use a hydraulic press. I'd give it a shot.

Thanks for your response Cookiemech. Assuming that I would need a hydraulic press, that would indicate that the bearings are held in place through a friction/pressure fit and may be difficult to remove from the hub? That being the case, I wonder if it would be smart to just get the entire assembly and be done with it...

I'll most likely remove the entire assembly and see firsthand what the situation is before ordering parts. I'll post my findings.

Jerry

mgs95 · #4 (**permalink**) 01-26-2007, 12:27 PM

A few pointers for general bearing replacement. (you may know this already)

During disassembly keep an eye open for any adjustable things and be sure to mark them with a scribe so that you can reassemble without needing realignment.

When pressing things apart, look for snap-rings hidden behind seals(Subaru does this).

Be sure to replace the seals if they aren't integral to the bearing.

When pressing back together always support things such that you don't transmit forces through the bearing rollers (press on the outer race when pressing into the hub and support the inner race when pressing the shaft in.)

Let us know how it goes.

carnac · #5 (**permalink**) 02-05-2007, 09:04 PM

I would reccomned replacing the hub/bearing as a unit. It will be four bolts per side and your done. If you choose the bearing only route you will definitely need a hydraulic press. You may also find damaged hubs. Have you made sure the roaring is the bearings and not the tires. With the tire off the ground spin it with your hand on the spring, you should feel the roughness in the spring. I am a 20 yr. toyota tech.

volvo4fun · #6 (**permalink**) 04-07-2007, 05:53 PM

Bearing hub assemblies are put together by a specialized machine. Everything is just right. You simply can't duplicate this at home. That is why they will last much longer than previous designs.
It is not worth messing with. Buy the bearing hub assemblies from Toyota or Napa or ebay.

mustang67408 · #7 (**permalink**) 04-07-2007, 06:09 PM

Toyota does not sell bearings for the rear.
They only sell an assy, so there are no special tools or torque specs, or directions on HOW TO.
Your on your own trying to get that apart and back together. I have tried and you will break it.
I recommend replaceing the whole assy. It is 4 bolts and your done, you dont even have to remove the brake shoes.
nplug the sensor if ABS equipped and remove 4 bolts and install in rev order.
Good Luck whatever path you choose.