So back to the hub assy: What if you dont remove the axle shaft nut and take the axle shaft out with the hub? I could see how it may be a pain, but as to not open up the bearings. Just not wanting too many extra surprises when I do my rotors.

 

You can't replace the rotors without removing the the unit bearing. Even if you could trying to reinsert the axle with the weight of the rotor on it you'd likely tear up the axle seal.
Don't worry, seperating the bearing is the exception, most slip right off without problem. Biggest problems are in the areas that salt the winter roads, that leaves you out.

 

nevrenufhp:

Mine were heavily rusted on their, and from searching this forum in great detail before I started this project, most came off with out any probelms.. I think mine was at the beach a lot before I purchased it.

 

My other reason for trying another way was I havent found the hub socket yet , but I think I know where I can borrow one.

 

Just to update the leaking axle after the bearing change. As I thought you guys know your stuff. A week later the leak SEEMS to have stopped. Either what leaked past the seal is gone or the seal has magically repaired itself. I hope it is fixed. When I get some time I will clean the area with some degreaser and check again.

 

Sidewinder, I'm sure your seal has "healed". I've had a pair of seals in my glove box for 5 years and over 100k after the last time I pulled my axle.

 

For clarification, why can't you change the rotors without pulling the bearings?

I did my brakes yesterday and the rotors slid off the studs when I pulled the calipers. Must be a difference in years I guess.