PontiacBonnevilleClub.com

So I have quite the howl in the front end. Jacked it up tonight and ran the car in drive. It is the right side. When I drive and turn from side to side no clicking or clunking. I am thinking it is the wheel bearing. Would like to also change drive axle while I am in there but they re pretty pricey. Is this a bad idea or do the drive axles go a long ways? 125,000 miles

Axles are generally cheaper than wheel bearings. Where are you quoting your prices from? I wouldn't mess with the axle unless its slinging grease.

my dads 01 and my 00 SSEIs had bad drivers side wheel bearings and we didnt replace drive shafts either.

everyone here says the wheel hut nuts are one time use. ive had mine off and back on a few times before i knew of this but you may want to keep that in mind

Don't see why you would need to replace the shaft unless it was bad. To check if it's a bad bearing, grab the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock and wiggle. If there's play, the bearing is done.

So got it replaced and fixed the noise. The shaft was rusted in like I have never experienced. Beat on shaft with a large hammer and did not even budge. Soaked with penetrating oil for two days and no go. Finally got the torch out and heated the heck out of it. Came out but still with plenty of coaxing. Hope I did not knock something out of wack with all the hammering.

They make a puller for that you can borrow at most part stores.