The ' 98 S70 was diagnosed to need a left side CV joint by the dealer. I ordered a new axle from FCP for $110. Are these pretty easy to replace? Is the hub bearing normally replaced at this time?

Thanks in advance.
Dave

For $110.00 you ordered a rebuilt axle from FCP. They are fairly simple, the two biggest problems will be getting the ball joint out of the bottom of the steering knuckle and getting the axle to pop free of the trans. On the ball joint if you give it one really good straight yank down it will slide out, if it does not come all the way out on the first pull take a hammer and tap it back up to where it belongs and give it another might pull, a little penetrating oil goes a long way here. The left side axle can sometimes be a bit of a bitch to get out without the factory tool, but I seem to get the majority of mine out with the handy big ass screwdriver. Be careful not to crack the case by prying on it with the screwdriver.
While there is some duplicate labor involved here and it would be easier to change the wheel bearing/hub assembly while you are in there I would not recommend doing it just because you are there. Just like your axles and axle boots hubs are things that you replace because they are failing. If you have not tell tale signs of wheel bearing failure then I would not replace it. The typical bad wheel bearing will make a "wah wah wah" type noise that worstens as you steer into and out of corners. Drive the car at 35-45 mph and weave left and right like a drunk, if you hear that noise coming and going then you need wheel bearing(s), if not then all is good for now.

Mark

Thanks Mark. I'll check for bearing noise before I start the project as I don't have replacements yet.