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New wheel bearing assembly installation

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by John Dostal, Aug 27, 2012.

  1. John Dostal

    John Dostal Junior Member

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    I am ready to install a new wheel bearing assembly. The shaft is very tight going into the bearing and am wondering if that is normal. I seams very tight compared past bearings I have installed on other vehicles. It only goes into the new bearing assembly about 1/4" befor it gets tight. I don't want to force it unless it is required. Does anyone have experience with this repair.
     
  2. Britprius

    Britprius Senior Member

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    Have you cleaned the shaft before trying to assemble it, a light rub round with emery cloth is ok provided you clean off any metal dust and rust before assembly. Lubricate the shaft with some light oil and it might be needed to tap gently the hub onto the shaft with a rubber mallet. If it still will not go I would suspect a faulty bearing.
     
  3. northwichita

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    I don't recall the two I've done as being tight like you're describing.
     
  4. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    Are you referring to installation of a new front axle hub assembly? If the drive shaft does not fit properly, is it possible that you have the wrong part?
     
  5. Avi's Advanced Automotive

    Avi's Advanced Automotive Independent hybrid repair shop

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    If you post some pictures we would be able to help more.

    I think you might be referring to the axle shaft not fitting into the hub assembly? You might try cleaning the splines on the axle with a metal brush. I would follow that with some WD-40 or similar product. They don't always slide in easily, especially if they have any rust on them.