1998 Pontiac Grand Prix removing the front hub

KAISER0427

MEMBER
1998 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
116,184 MILES

I have to replace my right front spindle and I'm having trouble getting the hub. I have taken the axle nut off and the brake caliper and the 3 bolts behind the hub. I'm thinking these are the hub mount bolts. They bolt into the spindle/knuckle. I only found 3 but the manual says there are 4. Am I over looking a bolt? The 3 I found, 1 was located top center, 1 bottom right and one middle left. I'm being careful not to damage anything. That's why I'm asking. If there are only 3 bolts, what is an alternative way to remove the hub without using a puller? Thanks for the help.

4 Replies

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

The hub is probably rusted in the knuckle, try some PB Blaster and a rubber mallet (from behind) or use a pry bar from front and pry out evenly, and make sure there is not a retaing ring holding the hub in place.

I see only 3 bolts, ABS or not:

It is not uncommon for manufacturers to switch hub designs (4 bolt to 3), and the repair manual was not updated.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Sunday, February 22nd, 2009 AT 8:23 AM

KAISER0427

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I went and rented a hub puller and have screwed it in all the way and the hub will not come off. I have also used a half can of PB Blast and it's not coming lose from the knuckle/spindle.

Any suggestions on how to remove it? Your help is greatly appreciated.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Monday, February 23rd, 2009 AT 1:49 PM

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

If you look at the picture of the hub, the blue "ring" looks to me like a retaining ring and would have to be removed. It would be on the inside of the knuckle.

Don't see a retaining ring, but it should not be that hard to get out.

Pry the bearing seal out and look for any retaining rings.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 10:01 AM

KAISER0427

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you so much for your help. I'm having to do all this work myself because I can't afford to pay a mechanic $1400. This is my first time doing anything like this to a car. I'm now ready to start putting my car back together. I'm replacing the 2 lower ball joints, the rt. Front spindle/knuckle and the sway bar. Great web site and help I will donate when my business picks up or I get a job. Thanks again. Your help has been invaluable.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 11:44 AM