Hub assembly dusct cover removal

First off, thanks to everyone on here! I love this site.

I drive a 2002 Tacoma Prerunner 2WD V6. I'm trying to replace the lug nut studs and have tried the nut/washer/wrench-down thing but have struggled. My friend said best and easiest way would be to take off hub assembly and hammer them in. Thing is though I aint sure how to do this, simply because I don't know how to access the nut that holds the hub assembly into place. I thought the dust cover wouldn't be inverted like mine is, but because mine is inverted I'm having concern/issue with taking it off. Basically I aint sure if I'm supposed to chisel it out. Can someone please help?

Attached is a picture of what I have to work with. Thanks.

 

Drawing them in with a spare lug nut is easiest way.

 

I chiseled mine out and ended up ruining it... I ended up buying a new one for $11. These dust covers are pressed in pretty tight.

They make a press tool to install and remove lug nut studs, you might check at NAPA or CARQUEST. WHATEVER you do, DO NOT try drawing the lug nut stud into the hub flange with the wheel on the vehicle. If the lug nut stud does not seat, the lug nut and the stud will spin and not loosen. You will not be able to get the wheel off and you will have to torch the lug nut and stud.

Now that I mention these things, I may not be the most qualified individual to give advice on this subject. Just don't be like me.

 

I appreciate the reply. Is this best done with air impact wrenches? Cuz all I have is a basic ratchet/socket set and a 4-way lug wrench to work with. I've managed to get one on completely flush, but the second one has been ridiculously difficult.

 

Yes, an impact wrench would make things much easier. how you described it up top with the washers is exactly how I've done them in the past with other vehicles.

I pulled all old studs out and one at a time I would make sure the splines would line up correctly, add the washers and then the lug nut to hold it in place. then drive them in with an impact wrench. shouldn't take you long to do it this way.

You can purchase an impact wrench and a compressor for fairly cheap at Walmart, great investment if you plan on doing things on your own. If your not concerned about price, you can step it up with better quality stuff the first time.

Good luck man, think you will be fine getting this done the easy way and not having to take off the hubs.