[Digit]

Hi All,

I'm looking at buying a 2003 ZX5 and had it to a garage for an inspection. The garage found that the 'steadying bearing' is going. They took me for a test drive and pointed out the noise which is a steady growling in the front passenger side. Apparently is can be a problem with the focus. Has anybody heard of this? If anybody can tell me more about the problem and how big of a job it would be I'd appreciate it. The car has about 62000 km on it.

Thank,
Thom

 

[viney266]

Not sure what the steadying bearing is. Are we talking about a wheel bearing? Or a bearing on a front axle? Either one is fixable.

 

[suby6]

Hey Thom, found this on another forum, get him to discount it and buy it!
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Most CV shafts cost about $100 in these parts. I'm not sure if yours has a steady bearing for the long axle. These can be a nasty job if it doesn't come apart easily. Sometimes you can buy the shaft with the steady bearing, most times for not much more.

Other than dealing with a possible steady bearing, a shop should charge about 1.8 hours for one shaft & 2.6 for both. I don't know what shop labor is where you are, dealers here charge about $110 per hour, independents charge from $75 up.

EDIT: My info tells me that the right shaft DOES use a steady bearing. If you are going to try this yourself, buy the axle with the steady bearing if possible.

 

[viney266]

^^AGreed, That is the bearing I figured they might be referring to. Yes, easier to buy the whole axle, and they are available in the aftermarket from parts stores.

 

[suby6]

So then change the whole axle instead and it's an easy fix?

 

[suby6]

from my searching it looks like it is also or should be called a support bearing. I will look at mine tonight and see if I can see where it is. I don't see any shafts online that have it attached. Try calling a drivetrain specialist. I looked for one that did a great price on axles installed for me before but couldn't find him anymore.

Anyone have experience with this?

 

[focusfreak03]

if you just go to a parts store and get a chiltons manual and follow the axle replacement then you will be good to go. fairly easy.

 

[Digit]

Thanks.

I think a chiltons would be a good investment. The seller has agreed to have the work done so it looks like I'm getting the zx5. I was told the bearing once replaced often pops out of the axle so replacing the whole thing is wise for that reason as well as saving alot of frustration.

Thanks again for all your help.

 

[suby6]

So when you bringing it home? Look forward to seeing if my couple upgrades make any difference versus stock......race time!