How to Replace a Wheel Hub

A hub cap wrench can be a valuable tool when it comes to replacing a wheel hub. Replacing a damaged hub cap isn’t difficult, even when you have little experience. Of course, it pays to have some know-how before attempting to replace a wheel hub. There are a few different types of hubcaps; some come with nuts and bolts, others with screws. So, how can you replace a wheel hub, and is it worth trying at home?

Replacing a Hub Without Nuts or Screws

As said, some wheel hubs do not use any nuts, bolts, or screws to attach themselves. Replacing these isn’t impossible – but you must be careful not to damage anything. So, ensure the car is parked and the emergency brake is on as it stops the vehicle from moving an inch. Then, use a screwdriver to pry the edge of the hub cap away from the wheel. This should loosen it up, but if not, gently move around the hub until it does. Like an oil cap wrench, a flat screwdriver can be useful in times of need.

You’ll need to pry the old hub cap off and place the new one on the wheel. It’s important this matches up with the old one so that it’s a perfect fit. Gently tap the hub until it sits on the wheel, then use a mallet to secure it in place. While a hub cap dexter 21 88 & K71-704-00 might not be entirely needed here, it can be of use at times.

Replacing Hubs with Screw Attachments

It’s necessary to have the right tools to help make the job go faster. While an oil cap wrench isn’t needed here, it can be useful elsewhere. So, there are a few steps to remove and replace hubcaps with a screw attachment. Click here to read about Hubcaps – How to Install, Remove, Buy Hubcaps, and More.

Park Safely – Somewhere You Won’t Be Disturbed.
Find the Screw that Attaches the Hub to the Wheel.
Unscrew it and Gently Remove the Hub Cap.
Attach the New Hub Cap to the Wheel and Replace the Screws to Secure the Hub in Place.

When you’re working with a screw attachment, it’s incredibly easy to swap the hub cap around. It takes a few minutes and shouldn’t present too much of a problem. What’s more, you won’t need a hub cap wrench either.

Tackling a Hub Cap with Nuts

If the hub cap is secured with lug nuts, it isn’t difficult to remove. You will, however, need a little more patience to ensure things run smoothly. So, here are a few steps to try at home:

Park Safely and Loosen the First Three Lug Nuts – You Might Need a Hub Cap Wrench for This.
Remove the nuts and plastic washers but be Careful Not to Lose Them.
Loosely Attach the First Nuts and Remove the Others and the Washers.
Place the New Hub Cap and Washers On.

Tighten each Lug Nut to Secure it in Place.

When you’re dealing with lug nuts, there are a few more steps required to get the job done. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to do.

On the surface, it seems a daunting task to replace the hubcaps, but it doesn’t have to be that way. It can be easy with a little know-how and patience. Of course, there are different methods depending on the type of hubcaps you have, so do your research before attempting to replace them. There are lots of tools to help too, including a hub cap wrench and screwdriver.

Conclusion

Replacing a hub cap can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s manageable. Whether your hub uses screws, nuts, or bolts, understanding the correct method is key. For the best results, ensure you have the necessary tools, like a hub cap wrench or screwdriver, and match the new hub cap with the old one.

If you need specific tools or parts, searching for “trailer parts near me” can help you find local suppliers to make your task easier.