Removal

1. Remove wheel and tire assembly, then remove brake caliper assembly with brake hose connected. Suspend caliper assembly from frame using a wire hook to prevent damage to brake hose.
2. On models with automatic freewheeling hubs, proceed as follows:
a. Remove automatic freewheeling hub cover. When cover cannot be loosened by hand, protect cover with shop towel to prevent damage, then loosen cover using a suitable oil filter wrench.
b. Remove O-ring from hub cover, then the snap ring and spacer.

Fig. 23 Exploded view of front axle hub:

c. Remove automatic freewheeling hub using tool MD998360 or equivalent, Fig. 23.
3. On models with manual freewheeling hubs, proceed as follows:
a. Place hub in Free position, then remove freewheeling hub cover.
b. Remove snap ring attaching freewheeling hub body to driveshaft.
c. Remove freewheeling hub to front hub attaching bolts, then the freewheeling hub assembly, Fig. 23.

Fig. 10 Removing Spindle Nut:

4. On all models, remove lock washer, then the hub locknut using tool No. MB990954, Fig. 24.
5. Pull front hub with brake disc from knuckle, using care not to drop outer wheel bearing inner race.
6. Remove grease from inside front hub, then using a suitable drift, drive bearing races from hub.
7. Place alignment marks on brake disc and hub, then separate hub and disc as necessary.

Fig. 11 Checking Spindle For Wear:

8. Inspect all components for wear and damage. Measure spindle bearing seating area diameter, Fig. 25. Diameter should be 1.7805 to 1.7812 inch.