Expert: Mike Evans - 4/15/2010

Question
I was getting a grinding sound out of the front end of my 2004 Yukon XL Denali when making right turns at any speed; it has now escalated to the point of being undrivable.  When jacked up the left front wheel moves about an inch in and out so I'm guessing it's the wheel bearing.  I plan to replace the entire hub and bearing since it's a sealed system; is this a difficult job?  I've done auto mechanics all my life, so I'm not too worried unless it requires some major technical specs.  Also, there seems to be a lot of brands out there ranging from $75 up to about $250 all for the same item; is one better than another?  Is Timken a good brand or am I better staying with OEM?  Please let me know as I need to get this baby back on the road.  Thank you.

Answer
    I wouldn't worry about quality on this item.  Buy the cheapest one.  It is extremely easy to change this item out.  One thing you want to make sure you get is a new nut for the the CV axle.  The nut has to come off to do the job, and it shouldn't be re-used.  Sometimes they give you one with the bearing, sometimes not.  If the thing is that loose you may have damaged the rotor.  A new one wouldn't cost much and can be replaced while you are doing the rest of the job.  Make sure you don't damage the sensor for the anti-lock brakes.