Questions and Answers

Chevy Cavalier Humming A Tune Q. I am having trouble with my 1997 Chevy Cavalier Z24 drive system. When I rotate my steering wheel any degree to the left, I get a humming sound like when you cross the white line on a highway where they put ridges to wake up sleepy drivers. I am reluctant to assume anything, since all of the problems associated are timely and costly.

My understanding is that if it was my joints I would be hearing a clicking sound, but I'm not. This leaves me to believe that it is my bearings, but how do I know if it the left side or really the right? Also I started to take the left wheel assembly apart and after removing the center bolt with a 30mm deep socket (pain in the ass to find) I could not push the shaft in or pull the assembly with the bolts on it out. Which way do I get to the bearings?

Regards,
Manny
Toronto, Ontario

A. You are describing a bad hub bearing. They only come as a complete assembly. Remove the large nut, the three bolts that hold it to the spindle and give it a shot with a big hammer. To be sure you have the correct side, a stethoscope would help. After listening, you will know which one is bad.