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Dodge Ram 1994-2001: How to Replace Front Wheel Hub and Bearings

Bearings are crucial in delivering good handling and safe driving. Learn how to replace them here.

By Jerry Perez - July 8, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (1994-2001).

The wheel bearings are designed to withstand lots of heat and friction, as your wheel and tire spin freely thanks to the freedom the bearings give them. That being said, the bearings have a particular life cycle which they will function quietly and safely. Past that point, it is very dangerous to run them, as this could lead to sudden loss of control. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the wheel bearings in your Dodge Ram. If you aren't familiar with this process, visit your dealership or repair shop.

Materials Needed

  • New set of bearings
  • Ratchet wrench
  • 1 3/4", 14mm 12 point socket
  • Breaker bar
  • Hammer
  • 7mm hex socket
  • Floor jack and jack stands
  • Lug nut wrench

Step 1 – Jack up truck

Start by using your lug nut wrench and partially loosening the wheel lug nuts. Then locate the appropriate jacking spot for your Dodge Ram, and lift it on level ground. Then you can fully remove the lug nuts by hand, once the truck has been secured on jack stands. At that point you can safely remove the wheel.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Truck - Dodgeforum.com)

Figure 1. Secure the truck with jack stands on level ground.

Step 2 – Remove brakes

In order to gain access to the rotor and eventually the hub and bearing assembly, you must first remove the brake caliper. First, locate the main caliper bolts located on the back of it, then use your 7mm hex socket and ratchet wrench to remove them. These are commonly stuck pretty hard, so you may have to use a small breaker bar, but be careful not to strip them. Then make sure the caliper is out of the way, but not hanging by the brake lines. Then you will use a combination of 1 3/4" socket, ratchet wrench, and breaker bar to remove the center nut. The brake rotor should slide off.

  • Figure 2. Remove the caliper bolts.
  • Figure 3. Remove the center nut.

Step 3 – Remove old bearing hub

Once the brake assembly is out of the way, you must first locate the four bolts that hold the hub assembly in place. Then use a 12-point 14mm socket and ratchet wrench to remove them. These will most likely will be stuck on by rust or corrosion from being exposed to the elements, so they will be tough to remove. Make sure to use restraint in removing them so they don't break off in the process. Once they are removed, the hub assembly will slide out and expose the bearings located behind it.

  • Figure 4. The four bolts to be removed.
  • Figure 5. Hub assembly, and arrow pointing to where the bearings are located.

Step 4 – Install new bearings

You may now insert the brand new bearings in the hub assembly, and piece everything back together in exact reverse order as removed. Also, make sure to grease them with the manufacturer designated bearing grease.

Follow these steps:

  • Replace four hub assembly bolts.
  • Replace brake rotor.
  • Replace center nut.
  • Remount brake caliper.
  • Replace brake caliper bolts.
  • Mount tire back on.
  • Hand tighten lug nuts.
  • Lower car to the ground.
  • Torque lug nuts.

Featured Video: Bearing Replacement on Dodge Ram

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