The hubs on our cars are an all-in-one design with the bearing. They are referred in some areas as a generation 2 wheel bearings. You cannot just replace the bearing, you need to replace the entire hub assembly. Furthermore, you cannot just press a new one in and out, you need to apply force in the proper locations to ensure the longevity of the wheel bearing.
There is a lot of talk about the “proper way” to do this job, but, in my opinion, to properly and easily apply that force, you need a special tool. A few companies actually sell the tool you need. They come in different forms. I ended up getting a kit made by Laser Tools (https://www.lasertools.co.uk/product/5568).
Our hubs are 78mm, so make sure you get a tool with the correct size plates.
The tool is actually kinda cool. It’s very simple to use and I removed/installed mine in no time. It eliminates all chances of not properly removing, or installing, the hubs. Just make sure you grease the threaded rod of the tool with moly grease each time you use it. If not, you could easily strip it.
For parts I used *** 713 6604 40. This kit comes with the axle bolt, updated splash shields for the new hub, and the hub. I couldn’t find a kit from FCP or any other stores that included everything in one.
Here’s the procedure to replace both.
1) Jack up the front end of the car.
2) Remove tires, support calipers, remove rotors and axle bolts.
3) Undo the LCA ball joint nut, and separate the LCA from the hub.
4) Push the axle into the hub, and pull the hub outward so that the axle stub is no longer in the hub.
5) Support the axle to the strut spring so that it is not dangling down.
Now it is time for the special tool. The one I used came with good directions and used numbers to show you what part goes where. There are two different sets of plates in the kit. One for removal, and one for installation. The difference is how it applies force to the hub. Use the applicable set.
6) Use the tool to remove the hub. You’re going to need a long ratchet with a 22mm socket on it, and a 30mm wrench/socket to couterhold.
You slowly ratchet on the front nut until you see the hub start to come out of the knuckle. It should come straight out with no issue after it begins to move.
Installation
7) Grab the new hub assembly and apply some anti fretting paste to it.
8) Grab the other clamshells and use them to install the new hub.
The new hub will bottom out on the tool when it is fully installed. So you don’t have to worry about it being in all the way.
9) Place the proper splash shield on the axle, and then push the axle into the new hub assembly.
The kit comes with two splash shield sizes – one goes on the passenger side axle, while the other goes on the driver side.
10) Place the LCA ball joint into the knuckle, and install the nut.
11) Reinstall the calipers, rotors, and tire.
If anyone wants to rent the tool or that, let me know!