Thread: Which HUB ass'y to buy?

Had the ABS/TCS light issue fixed - worn or loose wire from the sensor, I think, but I still get the ABS groan when just starting out. Every time. Someone said replace the HUB ass'y... yes?

I'd like to get the cheapest one, but ... choices are ...

NAPA

Hub Assy - Front Wheel
Part Number: BRG BR930548K
Product Line: NAPA Bearings
IMPORTANT INFO: w/ ABS Brakes
$174.00/ea

Hub Assy Kit - Front Wheel
Part Number: PGB PBR930548K
Product Line: Proformer Bearings
IMPORTANT INFO: w/ 4 Wheel ABS Brakes
$95.49/ea

AUTOZONE
Timken/Wheel Bearing/Hub Assembly-Front
For your 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix 3.8L SFI SC OHV 6cyl
Price:$143.99 Part Number: 513179

Duralast/Wheel Bearing/Hub Assembly-FrontPrice:$89.99

ROCK AUTO
ACDELCO Part # FW293 {#88964168} Sold individually
HUB,FRT WHL(W/WHL SPD SEN) w/FRT & RR DISC ANTILOCK BRK(JL9)
$187.79

I just replace a front hub on my car, first on ever at 157,000 miles, and it was just a little loose to cause a rattle in the steeringwheel. Anyway, what I noticed o nthe new hub is that it was quite "tight" and took some effort to turn, and I understand this a being a new part and tight and all. However, my expierience in setting up rear ends with new bearings and hypoid gears and such has taught me that final machining takes place to the parts when they are put into service and wear patterns are established, hence the need to the tightness to accomidate the intial wear upon fisrt use. The problem is that extra heat is created during this process which tends to degrade the lubicating qualites of the lubricant used, this in turn of course will effect the overall longevity of the part, regardless of the manufacturer, production tolerances and specifications.
Ok, so now I will get to the punch line, it would be a good idea to drive the vehical a couple miles at low speed, (speed limit) no more than 45-50 mph, and then allow cool down until room temperature. This can repeated several times, and of course the easier the part is "broken in" the better.
With the expence and labor involved at replacing the hub assemlies, I see it as cheap insurance to prolong the life of the part.