As an automotive expert with years of hands-on experience, I can provide a detailed guide on how to change a wheel hub. The process can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as whether it's a front wheel or rear wheel hub that needs to be replaced. However, I'll outline a general procedure that should give you a good idea of what's involved.

Step 1: Preparation
Firstly, ensure that you have the necessary tools and replacement parts. You will typically need a jack, jack stands, wheel wrench, socket set, torque wrench, and a new wheel hub assembly. It's also a good idea to have a helper, as some steps may require an extra set of hands.

Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
Before you begin, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Use the jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands under the appropriate support points to ensure safety while you work underneath the vehicle.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel
Using a wheel wrench, remove the lug nuts and then lift off the wheel. This will give you access to the brake components and the wheel hub.

Step 4: Remove Brake Components
Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove the brake caliper, rotor, and possibly the brake drum or dust shield. This will vary based on whether it's a disc or drum brake system.

Step 5: Disconnect the Brake Hose
If your vehicle has a disc brake system, you'll need to disconnect the brake hose from the caliper. This is typically done by loosening the hose clamp and sliding the hose off the caliper.

Step 6: Remove the Wheel Hub Assembly
Now, you'll need to remove the wheel hub assembly. This may involve removing bolts or nuts that secure the hub to the steering knuckle or axle. Some vehicles have a bearing and hub that are permanently assembled and bolted to the spindle, which simplifies the process.

Step 7: Install the New Wheel Hub
Once the old hub is removed, you can install the new one. Align it properly and secure it with the bolts or nuts, ensuring that everything is tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 8: Reconnect the Brake Hose
If you disconnected the brake hose, reconnect it to the new wheel hub assembly and secure it with the hose clamp.

Step 9: Reinstall Brake Components
Reinstall any brake components that were removed, such as the brake caliper and rotor.

Step 10: Reinstall the Wheel
Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts by hand initially. Once the wheel is in place, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's recommended torque.

Step 11: Lower the Vehicle
Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back onto the ground using the jack.

Step 12: Final Check
Once the vehicle is back on the ground, give the lug nuts a final tight with the torque wrench to ensure they are secure. Check the brake fluid level and top it off if necessary.

The time it takes to complete this process can vary greatly. For some rear/4WD vehicles with permanently assembled bearings and hubs, the job can be done in as little as 20-30 minutes. However, for rear axle bearings on rear wheel drive/4WD vehicles, the process can take several hours due to the complexity of the task.

Remember, safety is paramount when working on vehicles. Always use the proper tools and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific vehicle.

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Some rear/4WD vehicles have the bearing and hub permanently assembled and bolted to the spindle. While making for a more expensive replacement part, removal and replacement only takes 20-30 minutes. Rear axle bearings on rear wheel drive/4 wheel drive are a big job that will run several hours.read more >>