Hey guys! Let's talk about something crucial for keeping your Nissan Patrol running smoothly, especially if you're into off-roading: the swivel hubs. These little guys are essential for your 4x4's steering and overall handling. Over time, they can wear out, leading to all sorts of problems. That's why knowing how to rebuild them is super handy. So, let's dive into a step-by-step guide on how to tackle a Nissan Patrol swivel hub rebuild.

Why Rebuild Your Swivel Hubs?

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s understand why this rebuild is so important. Swivel hubs are a critical part of your Nissan Patrol's front axle. They allow the wheels to turn while still transferring power to them. Because they're constantly exposed to the elements and under a lot of stress, they tend to wear out. Common symptoms of worn swivel hubs include:

• Excessive play in the steering wheel.
• Vibrations at certain speeds.
• Difficulty in steering.
• Grease leaks around the swivel hub area.
• Unusual noises like clicking or grinding when turning.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious damage and costly repairs down the road. Rebuilding your swivel hubs ensures your Patrol's steering is precise, reliable, and safe, especially when you're tackling tough terrains. Plus, it’s a great way to save some cash by doing it yourself!

Tools and Parts You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our tools and parts. Having everything ready before you start will make the whole process smoother and less frustrating. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• New Swivel Hub Rebuild Kit: This should include new bearings, seals, and gaskets. Make sure it's the right kit for your specific Nissan Patrol model and year.
• High-Quality Grease: Specifically, grease designed for swivel hubs or CV joints. It needs to be able to withstand high pressures and temperatures.
• Socket Set: Including a range of metric sockets and extensions.
• Wrench Set: A good set of open-end and box-end wrenches.
• Torque Wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
• Hammer and Punch Set: For removing stubborn parts.
• Pliers: Both regular and snap-ring pliers.
• Screwdrivers: A variety of flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers.
• Bearing Press or Puller: This can be a lifesaver for removing and installing bearings.
• Grease Gun: For packing the new bearings with grease.
• Jack and Jack Stands: Safety first! You'll need these to lift and support your Patrol.
• Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Drain Pan: To catch any oil or grease.
• Brake Cleaner: For cleaning parts.
• Rags or Shop Towels: Lots of them!
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protected.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Service Manual: A service manual specific to your Nissan Patrol model. This will provide torque specs and other critical information.

Having all these tools and parts on hand will ensure you’re well-prepared for the rebuild. Trust me; there’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a job and realizing you’re missing something! Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rebuilding Your Nissan Patrol Swivel Hubs

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of rebuilding your Nissan Patrol's swivel hubs. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your Patrol back on the road in no time!

1. Preparation and Safety

• Park your Nissan Patrol on a level surface.
• Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels to prevent any movement.
• Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheel of the side you're working on. Don't remove them completely, just loosen them.
• Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
• Remove the front wheel.

2. Disconnecting the Brake Caliper and Hub Assembly

• Disconnect the brake line from the caliper. Be careful not to damage the brake line. Use a flare nut wrench if possible to avoid rounding off the fittings. Have a container ready to catch any brake fluid that leaks out. Properly dispose of the brake fluid.
• Remove the brake caliper by unbolting it from the hub assembly. Secure the caliper out of the way, making sure not to strain the brake hose. You can use a bungee cord to hang it from the suspension.
• Remove the hub assembly. This usually involves removing the locking hub (if equipped) and then the hub retaining nuts or bolts. Consult your service manual for the specific procedure for your model.

3. Removing the Swivel Hub

• Disconnect the steering arm from the swivel hub. This is typically held on by bolts.
• Remove any ABS sensor wires or other components attached to the swivel hub.
• Remove the swivel hub itself. This can be tricky as it might be stuck. Use a hammer and punch to gently tap around the swivel hub to loosen it. Be patient and avoid excessive force.

4. Disassembling the Swivel Hub

• Clean the swivel hub thoroughly with brake cleaner to remove any grease and dirt. This will make it easier to work on.
• Remove the old bearings and seals. This is where a bearing press or puller comes in handy. If you don't have one, you can use a hammer and punch, but be very careful not to damage the swivel hub. Heat can also help to expand the metal slightly.
• Inspect the swivel hub for any signs of damage, such as cracks or excessive wear. If it's damaged, replace it.

5. Installing New Bearings and Seals

• Pack the new bearings with high-quality grease. Make sure to get the grease inside the bearing thoroughly. A bearing packer tool can make this easier and more efficient.
• Install the new seals and bearings into the swivel hub. Use a bearing press or hammer and punch to gently press them into place. Ensure they are seated correctly and are flush with the surface.

6. Reassembling the Swivel Hub

• Reinstall the swivel hub onto the axle housing. Make sure it's aligned correctly. Use new gaskets and seals to prevent leaks.
• Reattach the steering arm and any ABS sensor wires or other components.
• Torque all bolts to the specifications in your service manual. This is crucial for ensuring everything is properly secured.

7. Reinstalling the Hub Assembly and Brake Caliper

• Reinstall the hub assembly, making sure to tighten the retaining nuts or bolts to the correct torque specifications.
• Reinstall the brake caliper and reconnect the brake line. Tighten the brake line fitting securely.

8. Bleeding the Brakes

• Bleed the brakes to remove any air from the brake lines. This is essential to ensure your brakes function properly. Follow the bleeding procedure outlined in your service manual.

9. Final Steps

• Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
• Torque the lug nuts to the correct specifications.
• Test drive your Nissan Patrol to ensure everything is working correctly. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Rebuild

• Take Photos: Before you disassemble anything, take photos of how everything fits together. This can be a lifesaver when you're reassembling everything.
• Label Everything: Use labels to mark parts and their locations. This will help you keep track of everything and avoid confusion.
• Work Clean: Keep your work area clean and organized. This will make it easier to find parts and prevent contamination.
• Use the Right Tools: Using the right tools for the job will make the process easier and prevent damage to parts.
• Don't Rush: Take your time and don't rush the process. Rushing can lead to mistakes and potential damage.
• Consult the Service Manual: Your service manual is your best friend. Refer to it often for torque specs, procedures, and other critical information.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the Wrong Parts: Make sure you're using the correct rebuild kit for your specific Nissan Patrol model and year.
• Over-Tightening Bolts: Over-tightening bolts can damage threads and cause parts to break. Always use a torque wrench and follow the specifications in your service manual.
• Forgetting to Grease the Bearings: Failing to properly grease the bearings will lead to premature wear and failure.
• Damaging the Seals: Be careful not to damage the seals during installation. Damaged seals will leak and compromise the performance of the swivel hub.
• Skipping the Brake Bleeding: Forgetting to bleed the brakes after disconnecting the brake line will result in poor braking performance.

Conclusion

Rebuilding your Nissan Patrol's swivel hubs might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, parts, and a little patience, you can definitely do it yourself. Not only will you save money, but you'll also gain a better understanding of your vehicle and the satisfaction of knowing you did the job right. Remember to follow the steps carefully, consult your service manual, and take your time. Happy wrenching, and enjoy the smooth ride of your rebuilt swivel hubs!