Chrysler Repair: PT Cruiser 03 Front Wheel Bearing Replacement, wheel bearing replacement, haynes manual

Question
Front wheel bearing starting to howl on girlfriends GT (ground strap was severed at some point, I replaced strap but figure static charges grounding to chassis through bearings did the dead).  Bearing check does feel a bit loose compared to Rt side, so this likely is early.  Does howl pretty good though!!  what is involved in replacement?  is this a sub assembly that is essentially a replacement or is it a bearing press out/in job?  Haynes manual states "remove old part, replace with new part, replace tire" so not very helpful....  thanks for advice!!

Answer
Hi Bence,
The manual for '02 I have shows that you have to remove the steering knuckle and then go through a press out prcedure that involves pressing out the wheel mounting studs, splitting the bearings with special tool, pressing new bearings, etc., and other special tools. You would want to compare the cost of a new knuckle with the costs of repairing by the procedure which covers 4 pages in the manual. The cost of tools and access to the arbor press would be a factor as well.
I haven't had to do this sort or replacement myself. I would be pleased to xerox the manual pages and mail them to you if you want to see what is involved.
Please let me know what course you choose to follow so that I can share it with others.
Roland
PS Sorry for the delay but I just found your question in the 'pool' to which the other expert had referred it. Please 'rate' my answer, and where you see the question about 'volunteer of the month' please consider a 'yes'.

PPS The pages are in the mail. Thank you for doing a rate/nominate response. Best of luck with the project however you pursue it. I responded to your last follow-up with a proforma response so that the confidentiality of your address would be preserved.