Q: How to service front wheel bearings for Oldsmobile Cutlass?
A: In most cases, the front wheel bearings will not need servicing until the brake pads are changed. However, these bearings should be checked whenever the front wheels are raised for any reason. With the vehicle securely supported on jack stands, spin the wheel and check for noise, rolling resistance, or free play. Now grab the top of the tire with one hand and the bottom of the tire with the other. Move the tire in and out on the spindle. If it moves more than 0.005in, the bearings should be checked, then repacked with grease or replaced if necessary. To remove the bearings for replacing or repacking, begin by removing the hubcap and wheel. Using an Allen wrench of the proper size, remove the two bolts which secure the disc brake caliper to its support. Fabricate a wood block which will be slid between the brake pads to keep them separated. Carefully slide the caliper off the disc and insert the wood block between the pads. Use wire to hang the caliper assembly out of the way. Be careful not to kink or damage the brake hose. Pry the hub grease cap off the hub using a screwdriver. Use needle-nose pliers to straighten the bent ends of the cotter pin and then pull the cotter pin out of the locking nut. Discard the cotter pin, as a new one should be used on reassembly. Remove the spindle nut and its washer from the end of the spindle. Pull the hub assembly outward slightly and then push it back into its original position. This should force the outer bearing off the spindle enough so that it can be removed with your fingers. Remove the outer bearing, noting how it is installed on the end of the spindle. Now the hub assembly can be pulled off the spindle. On the rear side of the hub, use a screwdriver to pry out the inner bearing lip seal. As this is done, note the direction in which the seal is installed. The inner bearing can now be removed from the hub, again noting how it is installed. Use clean parts solvent to remove all traces of the old grease from the bearings, hub, and spindle. A small brush may prove useful; however, make sure no bristles from the brush embed themselves inside the bearing rollers. Allow the parts to air dry. Carefully inspect the bearings for cracks, heat discoloration, bent rollers, etc. Check the bearing races inside the hub for cracks, scoring, or uneven surfaces.
Q: How to replace the Wheel Bearing on Oldsmobile Cutlass?
A: To replace the axleshaft and oil seal, use a bearing extractor or custom tool. After removing the bearing, clean its recess. Drive the new bearing in using tubing against its outer track. Lubricate with gear oil, ensuring bearing numbers are visible. Discard the old oil seal, install a new one, and re-install the axleshaft.