Hang up and remove the front wheel

Use a chisel to separate the cap from the hub.

How to check and adjust the clearance in the hub bearings of the VAZ-2121

Remove the brake pads (see Replacing the front brake pads).

Attach the dial indicator holder to the steering knuckle.

Leg we rest the indicator against the wheel hub as close as possible to the adjusting nut.

We put the rings of the open-end wrenches (for example, "17") on the two studs and secure them with the wheel mounting nuts.

How to check and adjust the clearance in the hub bearings of the VAZ-2121

We turn and move the hub in the axial direction using the wrenches.

We measure the amount of axial movement (clearance) of the hub along indicator.

How to check and adjust the clearance in the hub bearings of the VAZ-2121

If the clearance exceeds 0.15 mm, it must be adjusted.

To do this, straighten the crumpled nut belt with a punch.

How to check and adjust the clearance in the hub bearings of the VAZ-2121

Using a 27 mm open-end wrench, unscrew the adjusting nut of the hub bearings.

Install a new adjusting nut.

Tighten it to a torque of 19.6 Nm (2.0 kgf.m), while simultaneously turning the hub in both directions.

Loosen the adjusting nut and tighten it again to a torque of 6.86 Nm (0.7 kgf.m).

Then loosen the nut 20–25˚.

Check the clearance in the bearings: it should be within 0.02–0.08 mm.

Stop the nut by pressing its flange into the grooves of the outer drive hinge shank.