How to Change a Wheel Bearing on a Ford Explorer
Changing a wheel bearing on a Ford Explorer is an essential maintenance task that can extend the life of your vehicle and improve its overall performance. Wheel bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing smooth rotation of the wheels. Over time, these bearings can wear out, leading to noise, vibration, and decreased handling. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing a wheel bearing on a Ford Explorer, ensuring that you can tackle this task with confidence.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a socket set, a wrench, a bearing puller, a bearing installation tool, a hammer, a mallet, and a container to catch the old grease. Familiarize yourself with the location of the wheel bearing on your Ford Explorer, as it varies depending on the model year. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on the front wheel bearing replacement process.
Step 1: Jack up the Vehicle
Begin by safely jacking up your Ford Explorer and securing it with jack stands. Place the jack under the vehicle at the designated jacking point, usually near the front suspension. Raise the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground, then place the jack stands under the frame for added safety.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel and Tire
Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel and remove them. Once the nuts are loose, gently lift the tire and wheel off the vehicle. Set the wheel and tire aside in a safe place.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel Hub Assembly
Locate the wheel hub assembly, which is attached to the vehicle by a set of bolts. Use a socket set and a wrench to remove the bolts, then carefully pull the wheel hub assembly away from the vehicle. Set it aside.
Step 4: Remove the Old Wheel Bearing
With the wheel hub assembly in your possession, use a bearing puller to remove the old wheel bearing. Place the puller around the bearing and tighten it until the bearing is loose. Then, use a hammer and a mallet to gently tap the bearing out of the hub assembly.
Step 5: Clean and Inspect the Hub Assembly
Using a rag and a solvent, clean the hub assembly to remove any debris or old grease. Inspect the hub assembly for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace the hub assembly before installing the new wheel bearing.
Step 6: Install the New Wheel Bearing
Place the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly, ensuring that it is properly seated. Use the bearing installation tool to press the bearing into the hub assembly. Apply a small amount of new grease to the bearing and the inside of the hub assembly.
Step 7: Reassemble the Wheel Hub Assembly
Reattach the wheel hub assembly to the Ford Explorer by tightening the bolts with a socket set and a wrench. Ensure that the bolts are properly torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 8: Reinstall the Wheel and Tire
Place the wheel and tire back onto the Ford Explorer and retighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands. Finish by torquing the lug nuts to the correct tension.
By following these steps, you can successfully change a wheel bearing on your Ford Explorer. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn-out components will help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
