Rear Wheel Bearings

[1995Pathfinder]

I indicated in a previous post that I was experiencing a slight vibration around 50 mph coming from the rear of my 94 Q45a (converted). It has new brakes and rotors and tires and none of that seems to have corrected it. I replaced the differential fluid last week and the sound is still there. I noticed on extreme cold days that the vibration starts at 45 mph and stays until 60, then disappears. After a few minutes it is back to only at 50 mph.

I'm guessing it is the wheel bearings and I want to replace them. I have the shop manual for the car and it appears relatively simple. I know it is all relative, but is it simple? It looks like I can change-out the bearing w/o pulling apart the entire drive shaft assy. Any guidance would be helpful as to the number of hours it may take for a "backyard mechanic" to do. Also, any idea on the cost for each rear bearing assy and where is the best place to buy them - I have not started shopping yet. The book says change the entire assy along with the bearings and seals.

My Q has 118K miles. Thanks for any help. Happy holidays to all.

Mike

[DAEDALUS]

For most things factory parts are recommended, and for something as critical as bearings, this is a must. The downside is that they run (I think) around $220 each or thereabouts. Also, expect to have to pull the knuckle assembly off and apart to do this. They are press-fit in there and they're probably really tight. Check with one of our sponsors on the left. They sell factory parts at wholesale prices, and they beat my local dealerships soundly on cost.

[1995Pathfinder]

Thanks for the info. Does anyone know how difficult they are to replace. Thanks.