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Front Hub Replacement

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Steve Huneck

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I am about to install new front hubs on my BJ7 (the splines are like a knife edge). My service manual says to remove the grease retaining cup with the extractor provided in the tool kit. I don't have one, and I'm wondering if vise grips are an alternative. I don't mind buying the correct tool if it is possible and/or needed.
I am also wondering if there are any 'gotchas' to this whole operation that should have me worried.
Any additional comments or advice are very appreciated.
Thanks,
Steve
 
Hi Steve,
The grease cap has a threaded rod which the tool screws into. If you use vise grips, you'll have to use that method until you replace the cap. Basically, you'll destroy the threads. There are a couple parts numbers for the cup, I'm not sure if they all have the same treads or not. My BJ8 has a 5/16"-24tpi thread. You could make a tool at the local hardware store out of a coupling nut and some all-thread.
 
I just did this, if you want to look at pictures of the process: https://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album170

The "meat" of the installation starts here: https://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album170?page=6

I made up this tool to drive the cup in (now) and remove it (future). I'll have to add a large washer or cup to straddle across the opening. To confirm Greg being correct (yet again, so boring...) it is a 5/16 x 24 bolt.

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I used a nut that's about 3"long from a MGB, I think it was a spacer(attachment point) between the head stud& the line for the air injection lines from the air pump. Still have it& works great. cheers Genos2
 
I use a short 5/16 - 24 coupling nut, 5/16 - 24 all thread, fender washer(s) and a 5/16 – 24 nut. Reinstalling simply use the coupling nut screwed to the dust cap and gently tap on the coupling nut with a brass drift. I got the short 5/16 – 24 coupling nut at Fastenal.
 
Gentlemen - thank you very much. Randy, those pictures are fantastic, I feel like I have already done the job.
One more question; I think I am still on topic, I need to order the bolts from Moss Motors, and while I am at it, I wonder if I should order a bunch of shims as well? Any thoughts?

Steve
 
Yes, get the shims!

Be aware: there are different size shims. The early cars, up to the point of the combined spindle/brake caliper mount, use the larger diameter shims, and the later cars use the smaller ones.

I ordered the "shim assortment" which was lost in the mail, and when I asked for another set, I received the small (wrong) ones. You'd be wise to order them individually to make up your own shim kit.
 
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