Wheel bearing problems

[trader-ray]

I have looked and searched and even printed countless pages on the replacment of the front hub bearing, so if anyone can please just verify one thing.
First, I have a 1994 geo Tracker 4 wheel drive with a automatic transmission and manuel lock out hubs. It is a 1.6-16 valve engine and is a two door convertable.
I have tried the span wrench and it just broke off all tabs from the wrench. This is after I removed the 3 screws and the outer ring. The inner ring that is around the threaded spindle I guess is where I am stuck at.
So my question is this, everyone keeps saying to remove the lock rings, I think the lock rings are not the problem as they hold the axle in place. I would appretiate any help on this.. I have a long weekend and want to get this job done. Thanks in advance.

[trader-ray]

Ok, I got the bearing cap off. I had to use the cold chisel and heat, then spray with liquid wrench. I will have to find another cap. I am glad that part is over though, I was going to just pull the entire spindle assembly and find one at a salvage yard.

[jtgh]

thats a good idea

sounds like it over heated and got super tight.
look for signs of heat damage, colors turning blue, etc.
mine is 170ft/lbs , with perfect ring screw alignment.
so its no easy off
swap out of front hub bearings

got lots of help here to make this page.

[the flying scotsman]

You state "tabs broke off from the span wrench". If you were referring to the four pins on the Kent Moore tool, they are sold individually as replacement parts. They should never be rotated while replacing but rather drawn straight out as the pins are staked on the sides to hold them in the body of the tool. You also should have removed four small screws from the retaining ring to access the threaded lock ring.

[jtgh]

http://carfix.stufftoread.com/hubs/4WD-89-91a.jpg
parst 16 ans 17

[TheZuke!]

trader-ray,

The '97 Tracker at the salvage yard has manual hubs.
You want me to pull one for you?
The counter guy said $10-20 each.
Refer to jtgh's photo:

http://carfix.stufftoread.com/hubs/4WD-89-91a.jpg

and give me the part numbers (from the photo) that you'd like
and I'll give it a college try.

Disclaimer: I don't know if the '97 Tracker hubs will fit your
'94 Sidekick.

TheZuke!

[trader-ray]

Originally Posted by jtgh

swap out of front hub bearings

got lots of help here to make this page.

Believe me, it was your write ups that I was printing and they were very helpful to me. I would like to thank you for them.
As far as the tabs as I call them, this tool was a socket looking tool and the tabs on it had been welded. It was at a 4x4 repair shop. At any rate, I am so glad i got it off. I am going to install the already bought and paid for bearing in the morning. Thanks again..

[jtgh]

your welcome, but you need the special tool. they are hardened pins !
$80 tool.
No one rents it either, and that really is a shame !
(best path (imho) buy,use,,then sell on ebay, better is craigs, (no load$))

100's of posters have tried to make their own tools (all mechs do, or go broke)

glad to see you got it .

cheers

[trader-ray]

Originally Posted by TheZuke!

trader-ray,

The '97 Tracker at the salvage yard has manual hubs.
You want me to pull one for you?
The counter guy said $10-20 each.
Refer to jtgh's photo:

http://carfix.stufftoread.com/hubs/4WD-89-91a.jpg

and give me the part numbers (from the photo) that you'd like
and I'll give it a college try.

Disclaimer: I don't know if the '97 Tracker hubs will fit your
'94 Sidekick.

TheZuke!

I really appreciate the offer, I have a smooth running and rolling tracker now, it was a ordeal to say the least. The bearings in there were not of this world. Even the part number cross refferanced to a electrical part. I think that someone took out the original bearing and left the race and just put in a bearing that rode on the race, front and rear. I had the old race pressed out, and the new one put in and had to buy a torque wrench that went past the one I had and it rides like a new vehicle now. Thanks for the help and the offer of pulling the hubs. I can now do some other things to get ready for winter. Tune up and tires are next on the list. Thanks again.