The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Replacing Front Wheel Bearings

I'm getting ready to replace the front wheel bearings in my 56 half-ton. I know there are inner and outer bearings on each wheel. What I'd like to know is if I have to buy anything besides the bearings and races. The manual doesn't show any pictures but does mention a "felt retainer." I assume I'll have to get at least two of those. Are there seals involved like in the rear axles?

front inner bearing grease seal

rear bearing grease/oil seal

you won't find the 'felt retainer', it's a piece that went in the oil cup against the backing plate - the seal that holds in the inner bearing should be available at a FLAPS > grease seal - ChicagoRawhide 18772 [NAPA 49412] [GM part #3656536]

Bill

Thanks for the help, guys.

I did my right front today. I replaced the old ball bearing type with tapered roller bearings. If I tighten the castle nut just enough so that there is no wobble in the hub, it feels a bit tight to me. The hub turns by hand, but it just feels a little stiff. If I back off one notch on the castle nut, I get a little wobble. I think I'm at the right spot but I just wanted to know how easily the hub should turn. No problems when I drive it, by the way.

I got it figured out. When all else fails, read the manual. The manual says to tighten the spindle nut 33 ft. lbs. and then back off to the next slot for the cotter pin. I had to back off two, but it works nicely.