wheel bearing/knuckle questions

[skatanic28]

this is the first time ive ever dealt with this stuff, so if anybody has any advice i would appreciate it. anyways, my car is up on a lift, and the right front wheel can move slightly laterally. my friend said it was a wheel bearing. i always just thought it was an unbalanced tire cuz i only get a vibration between 45 and 55 mph. but now that i know there is play, what is the best way to go about this? it seems like you have to replace the hub and bearing at the same time, is that right? well im 4-lug, so i would imagine i could just pick up the hub w/ bearing in it from one of you guys that swapped to 5-lug. if anyone can let one go for cheap that would be cool.
thanks guys

marc

[projectRDM]

Try to tighten the spindle nut first, if you've ever had it off. If it's still torqued to OE spec, then it's worn, replace it.

[skatanic28]

Try to tighten the spindle nut first, if you've ever had it off. If it's still torqued to OE spec, then it's worn, replace it.

k ill give that a shot, ive never had it off though. so if it is the bearing, i need the hub and bearing assembly right?

[haveblue]

check the ball joint to see if THAT has any play. its the little rubber covered joint that sits between the spindle and the lower control arm.

[projectRDM]

On S14s, it's one piece. On an S13, you can replace the brearing only, but that's really more work.

And yes, check the ball joint too.