Front hub — removal and installation (BMW 3 Series E46)

Note: The front hub should not be removed until it is necessary to replace it. The inner races of the hub bearings are pressed onto the hub axles, so removing the hubs will damage the bearings. BMW recommends replacing the hub assembly after removal in any case. You will need a new hub nut and cap when installing.

Removal

1. Remove the front brake disc (see chapter 9).

2. Loosen the mounting screw and remove the wheel sensor (see paragraph 20 of chapter 9).

3. Knock off the cap with grease from the center of the hub (Fig. 2.3).



4. Using a hammer and punch, pry open the hub nut and unscrew it (Fig. 2.4).



5. Attach a puller to the hub and pull the hub off the steering knuckle. If the inner bearing race remains on the steering knuckle, you will need a special puller to remove it (Fig. 2.5). Keep in mind that the hub bearings are not replaced separately. The entire hub assembly is replaced.





6. If necessary, unscrew the mounting screws and remove the rear shield of the brake disc.

Installation

7. Install the rear brake disc shield on the steering knuckle (if it was removed) and tighten the mounting screws securely.

8. Make sure the boot is on the rear of the hub, then slide the hub onto the steering knuckle. Press the hub onto the knuckle, using a suitable diameter pipe to support the inner bearing race (Fig. 2.8).



9. Secure the hub with a new nut. Tighten the nut to the specified torque and score it with a hammer and chisel.

10. Make sure the hub rotates easily and smoothly and install the new cap.

11. Install the brake disc and ABS wheel sensor (see chapter 9).

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