I have nothing to add to the technical knowledge base on this issue, just a few comments after replacing both hub ass'ys over the weekend on my '02 GTP. That, and the fact that I keep getting automated e-mails nagging me that I don't post enough on the forums... :P

Anyway, first thing I bought two shiny new Timken 513179 hub assemblies from RockAuto, $89 each. For some reason they don't list the front Timkens under the GTP section in the RockAuto online catalog when you search for them, but I found them under the regular Grand Prix listing for '02. They do list the Moog/National bearings (same part number as Timken) for the GTP. Also found a handy dandy discount code for 5% off, that basically took care of the shipping.

I found this simple thread to be the best reference of any that are on the internet: http://www.grandprixforums.net/how-r...ubs-10985.html

People always seem to cite this write-up when the subject comes up: Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Replacement Guide - General Motors Pontiac Grand Prix GTP - Pictures & Instructions, which has some excellent pictures, and is worth taking a look at too.

I had no problems with the bolts that hold the hub on. That's probably mostly to do with the fact that this car hasn't been out of Southern California since it was new (ain't I lucky...). 6-point 13mm socket, wobble extension, a short length of cheater bar pipe, and take it slow. They eased right out. The wobble extension made it much easier, allowing the socket to stay fully engaged on the bolts and giving me some wiggle room with the cheater bar in the wheel well.

The old screwdriver-in-the-brake-rotor-vent trick was perfect for holding things steady as I backed out the axle nuts. They came easy too. My only frustration there is with the size of the nut. Can somebody tell me why the manufacturer could never make up their mind about the nut size? Do they own stock in the Taiwanese manufacturers of cheap axle nut sockets?

Anyway, all is well. Followed the 159 ft-lb torque spec on the axle nut putting it back together. Car rolls noiselessly now, and gone is the pulsating ABS and occasional TCS light everytime I go over a speed bump, or make a slow speed turn in a parking lot.

Probably, though, my next job will be replacement of the passenger CV shaft assembly. I noticed a little red dust in there when replacing the hubs. Driver's side was done a year or so ago, and it was clean as a whistle.

Cheers,

Eric