DIY repair · Mercedes-Benz Europa International Gs

Front axle repack (knuckles & wheel bearings)

DIFFICULTY 4 / 5TIME 1–2 daysCOST $1,500–2,000 (owner estimate, 2002)

Symptoms

Grease weeping from the swivels, torn CV boots, wheel-bearing noise or play, or no record of the job.

The fix, step by step

  1. Strip the front hubs and knuckles, replace the CV boots and wheel bearings, and repack.
  2. Europa's own interval was 40,000 miles.
  3. Bearing clearances are critical, and one owner found local Mercedes dealers didn't know the job, so use a G-experienced technician if you lack the factory procedure and a dial indicator.

Tools & part numbers

  • Factory procedure
  • hub nut socket
  • dial indicator
  • CV boots
  • wheel bearings
  • grease
  • seals

Where to buy the parts

Genuine Mercedes front wheel bearing, outer 009 981 48 05 — listed for 2002+ W463; confirm fit by VINFCP Euro ↗Amazon ↗
Genuine Mercedes front wheel seal 463 334 01 59 — listed for 2002+ W463; confirm fit by VINFCP Euro ↗Amazon ↗

Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Mercedes-Benz Europa International Gs parts →

Before you start

Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.

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