2016 RAM 1500: Wheel Bearing Maintenance and Replacement Guide
2016 RAM 1500: Wheel Bearing Maintenance and Replacement Guide
Your RAM 1500 is a powerful and reliable workhorse, but even the toughest trucks need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. One important component to keep an eye on is the wheel bearings. These bearings allow your wheels to rotate smoothly and freely, and they play a vital role in your trucks handling and safety.
In this blog post, well provide you with everything you need to know about 2016 RAM 1500 wheel bearings, including:
* How to identify signs of wheel bearing failure
* How to replace wheel bearings on a 2016 RAM 1500
* The cost of wheel bearing replacement
Identifying Signs of Wheel Bearing Failure
The first step in maintaining your wheel bearings is to be able to identify signs of failure. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
* Grinding noise: A grinding noise while driving is one of the most common signs of wheel bearing failure. This noise is caused by metal-on-metal contact between the damaged bearing and the other components of your wheel assembly.
* Wobbling or vibration: If you feel your truck wobbling or vibrating while driving, it could be a sign of wheel bearing damage. This is because the damaged bearing is causing the wheel to move erratically.
* Increased play in the wheel: If you notice that your wheel has more play than usual, it could be a sign of wheel bearing failure. This is because the damaged bearing is allowing the wheel to move more freely than it should.
* Premature tire wear: If you notice that your tires are wearing unevenly, it could be a sign of wheel bearing failure. This is because the damaged bearing is causing the wheel to move erratically, which in turn causes the tires to wear unevenly.
* Leaking grease: If you see grease leaking from your wheel bearing, its a sign that the bearing is damaged and needs to be replaced.
How to Replace Wheel Bearings on a 2016 RAM 1500
If youre experiencing any of the signs of wheel bearing failure listed above, its important to have your bearings replaced as soon as possible. Heres a step-by-step guide on how to replace wheel bearings on a 2016 RAM 1500:
1. Gather your tools and materials. You will need the following tools and materials:
* New wheel bearings
* Socket wrench
* Torque wrench
* Jack and jack stands
* Safety glasses
* Gloves
1. Safety first. Before you begin working on your truck, be sure to park it on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Also, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from injury.
2. Locate the wheel bearing. The wheel bearings are located on the inside of each wheel hub. To access the wheel bearings, you will need to remove the wheel and tire.
3. Remove the wheel bearing. Once you have removed the wheel and tire, you will need to remove the wheel bearing. To do this, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the wheel bearing in place.
4. Install the new wheel bearing. Once you have removed the old wheel bearing, you can install the new wheel bearing. To do this, simply insert the new wheel bearing into the wheel hub and tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
5. Reinstall the wheel and tire. Once you have installed the new wheel bearing, you can reinstall the wheel and tire. To do this, simply place the wheel on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.
6. Torque the lug nuts to the specified torque. Once you have tightened the lug nuts, use a torque wrench to torque them to the specified torque. This will ensure that the lug nuts are properly tightened and that the wheel is secure.
The Cost of Wheel Bearing Replacement
The cost of wheel bearing replacement can vary depending on a number of factors, including the make and model of your truck, the severity of the damage, and the location of the repair. However, as a general rule, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for wheel bearing replacement.
Conclusion
Wheel bearings are an important part of your RAM 1500s suspension system, and they play a vital role in your trucks handling and safety. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help keep your wheel bearings in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.