Corvette C5, C6 & C7 Wheel Bearing Installation

A person with moderate mechanical skills who is familiar with automotive components should only attempt the replacement of wheel bearings.

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and properly support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor connector.
4. Remove the brake caliper guide pin bolts. Remove the brake caliper and brake pads from the caliper mounting bracket.
5. Remove the brake caliper mounting bracket and the rotor (fig. 1).

   

6. Disconnect the real-time damping (RTD) position sensor link, if equipped.
7. For rear wheel bearing replacement, remove the spindle nut and the washer (fig. 2).

   

8. Remove the lower ball joint retaining nut.
9. Separate the suspension knuckle from the lower control arm ball joint stud.
10. Lift the suspension knuckle up from the lower control arm (fig. 3).

    

11. For rear wheel bearing replacement, remove the axle from bearing.
12. Remove the wheel hub mounting bolts.
13. Remove the hub and bearing assembly from the suspension knuckle (fig. 4).

    

Installation Procedure

Notice:

• The Front and Rear Wheel Hub/Wheel Speed Sensors are interchangeable. The Front and Rear Wheel Hub/Wheel Speed Sensor are both splined holes through the center of the bearing. Install the wheel hub and bearing assembly to the suspension knuckle.
• Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the proper service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

1. Route the wheel speed sensor connector and cable through the knuckle and position the wheel hub into the knuckle. Properly position the wheel bearing to assure the wheel speed sensor connector and cable are located property to attach to the retaining clip. Install the wheel hub mounting bolts (fig. 5).

   

2. Tighten the wheel hub mounting bolts to 130 N·m (96 lb ft).
3. Install the suspension knuckle to the lower control arm ball stud and torque to spec. (Tighten initially to 30 N·m (20 lb ft) – then tighten nut an additional 180 degrees).
4. For rear wheel bearing replacement, install the axle nut, and tighten to 205 N·m (151 lb ft).
5. Install the brake rotor and the caliper bracket (fig 6).

   

6. Reinstall the brake pads and the caliper.
7. Secure the wheel speed sensor connector’s stainless steel clip to the retaining bracket. For rear wheel bearing replacement, visually inspect the speed sensor wires to assure clearance to the axle shaft. The cable may require a slight twist to insure the cable is tight to the knuckle for proper axle shaft clearance. (fig 7).

   

8. Connect the vehicle’s speed sensor cable to the wheel bearing’s speed sensor connector.
9. Connect the real time dampening (RTD) position sensor link, if equipped.
10. Verify all fasteners are installed and tightened to specifications.
11. Install the tire and wheel assembly, torque to specifications and lower the vehicle.

*Note: Photos reflect optional long racing studs. Replacement procedure is identical with standard length studs.

Story courtesy Danny Kellermeyer

When looking for Corvette parts to complete this installation, Corvette Central’s got you covered! We carry the following C5, C6, and C7 Corvette Front and Rear Wheel Hub and Bearing Assemblies:

• 575031  97-08 Front Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly
• 585048  97-08 Rear Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly
• 575058  09-13 Front Wheel Hub Assembly – Except HD
• 576108  09-13 Front or Rear Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly – HD
• 585070  09-13 Rear Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly – Except HD
• 577004 14-19 Front Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly
• 587005 14-19 Rear Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly

Performance/Racing

• 575113  97-08 Front or Rear Wheel Hub And Bearing Assembly SKF Heavy Duty / Racing
• 576136 09-13 Front or Rear Hub and Bearing Assembly GM Factory ZR1

For more information, give our team a call or contact us online.