Checking the condition and replacing the rear wheel bearings (Opel Astra G)

1. Support the front wheels with wheel chocks, jack up the rear of the car and place it on supports. Remove the rear wheels.

2. Remove the brake drums/discs (see Chapter Brake system).

3. To measure the amount of play in the bearings, you will need a plunger-type dial gauge. Attach the gauge to the outer edge of the hub assembly flange.

4. When checking the axial play, the plunger of the measuring device is pressed against the surface of the hub that contacts the brake drum/disc (don't forget to reset the device). To determine the amount of radial clearance, the gauge is attached to the outside of the hub, with the plunger towards its center.

5. Record the meter readings while slowly rotating the hub. Compare the measurement results with the requirements Specifications, if necessary, replace the hub assembly (see Removal and installation the rear hub assembly).

6. Finally, assess the degree of misalignment of the bearing axis, screw a metal lever to the hub with two wheel bolts. Install the indicator on the outer surface of the hub. Swing the hub with the lever, measure the misalignment of the bearing. If the measurement result exceeds the maximum permissible value (see Specifications), replace the hub assembly (see Removal and installation the rear hub assembly).

7. Remove the gauge and reinstall the brake drum/disc (see Chapter Brake system).

8. Install the rear wheels and lower the vehicle to the ground. Tighten the wheel mounting bolts to the required torque.