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
8,548 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.

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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.

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

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,548 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.

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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.

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