2001 jeep grand cherokee rear wheel bearing replacement

Are the rear wheels of your Jeep making too much noise? Sounds like the rear wheel bearings need to be replaced. Luckily, you can use these following instructions to do just that.

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

Unlike the front bearings, the rear wheel bearings on your Jeep Cherokee are not encased. Instead, they are separated components that slide inside the hub assembly and spin the wheel. When these units fail, the rear wheels will begin to vibrate as the wheels turn, often causing the chassis to violently shake. The shaking will also be accompanied with a loud humming noise. It is recommended to replace these bearings as soon as they malfunction in order to avoid any damage to the rest of the vehicle. Use these instructions to replace the rear wheel bearings on your Jeep Cherokee.

(Related Article: How to Replace Front Wheel Bearings - CherokeeForum.com)

Materials Needed

• 13mm 12-point socket
• 8mm wrench
• Breaker bar
• Bearing puller
• Seal puller
• Slide hammer
• Differential fluid
• Grease
• RTV sealant
• Hammer
• Catch can

Step 1 – Loosen the lug nuts and raise the chassis

Loosen each lug nut on your wheels and raise the chassis of the Jeep. While the Jeep is in the air, locate the jack points and secure the chassis using jack stands.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Car - CherokeeForum.com)

Step 2 – Remove the differential cover

• Place a catch can underneath the rear differential and loosen the 13mm bolts on the cover.
• Remove the pan, and allow the differential some time to drain.

• Use an 8mm wrench to loosen the pinion shaft bolt.
• Remove the pinon shaft and inspect it for any wear.

Step 3 – Remove the rear axles and drum brakes

Grab the rear drums and pull them off of the hub; they should just slide out. With the drums off, push the axle seal back so its c-clip can be revealed through the differential. Remove the c-clip and pull the axle out.

Step 4 – Remove the rear bearings

Each bearing is hidden behind a seal on the rear hubs.

• Use the seal puller to first remove the seal.
• After the seal puller is removed, use the bearing puller to remove it from the hub.

Step 5 – Install the new bearings

Open up that tub of grease and apply some on the new bearings, as it will help protect them. Use a hammer, large socket, and soft rag to install the new bearing. Keep hammering it in until it fully seats inside of the hub assembly, and install the new bearing seal.

Step 6 – Install axle and reassemble differential cover

Inspect the shaft of the axle and make sure its surface is smooth. If there is any large abrasions, it should be replaced as it may ruin the new bearing.

• Apply some grease to the axle shaft and slide it into place.
• Install the c-clips.
• Install the shaft pinion.
• Take the differential cover and apply some RTV to its mating surface.
• Install the cover back onto the differential.
• Pour in gear oil at the specified level, and check the differential cover for any signs of leakage.
• Install the rear drums and wheels; then lower the car.

Featured Video: Replacing Rear Wheel Bearings

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