Is it hard to...

Is it hard to instal bearings and tie rods (or stabilization bars can't remember) yourself? Is it recomended to pay 800 dollars to have it done or pay 160 for the parts and do it yourself?

 

This is not exactly a "yes or no" sort of question. What is hard for one person could be very simple for another. It depends very much on your level of experience in performing these tasks and the facilities/tools you have available. The value of doing it yourself would have to be assessed against the value of your time. Are you going to have to take time off work to perform the repair, or are you not employed or otherwise encumbered? By the way, what bearings are you wishing to replace, as a vehicle has many bearings in various locations?

 

I agree with Thingy.

Depending on the vehicle, the wheel bearings maybe pressed in which means you need a machine shop to press them out and in. That is not really a big deal, and is usually not that expensive at all too have done.

Tie rods are not too difficult either. With the right tools, i.e. ball joint fork, hammer, etc you should be able too do it. Before removing tie rods, it is recommened that you count how many threads are showing on either side so you don't have to mess with your alignment later.

This is a DIY site, so go for it! Get yourself a Haynes manual or subscribe to alldatadiy.com. These will probably come in very handy for you.

Good luck!

 

they are the front wheel bearings. My husband replaced the brakes a littlw while ago himself and wants to undertake the bearings. They really do have to be replaced. He has a tool box...

 

What kind of vehicle is this? The main issue is the bearings being pressed in or not. If they are not pressed in, the replacement will be easy.

 

it's a 2002 oldsmobile alero