2011 Aveo - Need help with right front bearing - shaft - strut - etc.

[xintersecty]

I still need to purchase a large C-clip removal tool. I already tried inserting two 1/8" drill bits into the clip's holes, and squeezed them together with channel locks, but was dangerous and unsuccessful. Maybe I could have tried metric bits for a tighter fit, but the procedure is still dangerous, even though I did wear safety glasses. Gotta get the right tool for the job.

A couple of points, removing that C clip, it's evil as hell. Use plenty of BB on it. I used a punch to pry it out. Most of the C clip removers I could buy was not up to the task. So use a punch to grip the C clip to pull it away from the channel. Then take a flat blade screw drive to hold it out.

I have a manual bearing press and it was hard as hell to press the bearing into the knuckle. Ultimately I used a 3/8 rod and built my own press. You will need access to a commercial press to remove it. You will not be able to remove it using manual methods.

Keep us informed on your progress.

[LJPatzius]

A couple of points, removing that C clip, it's evil as hell. Use plenty of BB on it. I used a punch to pry it out. Most of the C clip removers I could buy was not up to the task. So use a punch to grip the C clip to pull it away from the channel. Then take a flat blade screw drive to hold it out.

I have a manual bearing press and it was hard as hell to press the bearing into the knuckle. Ultimately I used a 3/8 rod and built my own press. You will need access to a commercial press to remove it. You will not be able to remove it using manual methods.

Keep us informed on your progress.

Sure thing! This is a weekends only project for now. But I figured this was going to be a tough job. I'll try conventional "homebrew" methods first, including renting or purchasing a bearing kit, Or making my own tools if I have to. But no matter, commercial methods or not, I'll post what worked for me, especially if I saved money!

P.S. I've already made a homemade 1/2" bolt/nut/spacer expander to remove the hub off the steering knuckle. I should've taken pics to share. Maybe this weekend I'll piece it all together for a picture. (I also made a special crankshaft nut removal tool when I changed out my head gasket on an earleir project.)

I really apprieciate the responses, thanks again!

Lee

[LJPatzius]

Here's a couple of pics of the home made bearing removal tool I made.

Cost around 25 dollars at local hardware store. Note: The threaded rod is 12 inches long.