I'm going to be replacing the front axle u-joints on my '06 4X4 in the near future. One is getting sloppy and the other is probably not far behind. What are the torque specs for the bolts that hold the wheel hub/axle assembly and also the big wheel nut? Also is there anything to look for or tricks I should know about to make the process easier? Thanks in advance.

 

Removal:
Spray Pb Blaster or WD40 between hub bearing and the knuckle will help to loosen the rust bond between the two parts before trying to remove hub bearing. Sometimes letting it soak over night if parts are really rusted badly.

1. Jack front wheels off ground, use jack stands.
2. Remove brake caliper, rotor and ABS wheel speed sensor if equipped.
3. Remove axle shaft (2) cotter pin (3), hub nut (1) and washer.
4. Remove four hub bearing bolts (2) from the back of the steering knuckle.
5. Remove hub bearing from the steering knuckle.


watch video shows how to remove hub bearing using a socket and extention works really well.







Installation:
1. Clean axle shaft and apply a thin film of gease to the shaft splines and hub bore.
2. Install axle shaft (2) through the steering knuckle (3) and into the differential side gears.
3. Install hub bearing in the knuckle.
4. Install hub bearing bolts (2) and tighten to 202 N·m (149 ft. lbs.).
5. Install ABS wheel speed sensor, brake rotor and caliper.
6. Install axle (2) washer and nut (1). Tighten axle nut to 179 N·m (132 ft. lbs.).
7. Rotate axle several 5 to 10 times to seat the wheel bearing.
8. Tighten axle nut (1) to final torque of 356 N·m (263 ft. lbs.).
9. Align nut to next cotter pin hole and install new cotter pin (3).


Good Luck

 

Thanks for that info Bigiron70. I don't think my torque wrench goes to 263 ft/lbs for the wheel axle nut. Interesting trick using the steering to break loose the hub.

 

My torque wrench only goes to 250 ft. lbs. that's close enough. Just go a little tighter if cotter pin slot doesn't line up. Don't forget the heat shield when re-installing the hub bearing. Sensor goes to top, I clean up everything with wire brush then coat the bore with some anti seize.