Ford Explorer: Front Suspension - RWD / Removal and Installation - Front Wheel Bearing and Wheel Hub

Removal

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect the performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the brake disc.
   Refer to: Brake Disc (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
   

1. NOTICE: Make sure that the sensor housing area is clean and free of foreign material before the sensor is removed.

   Remove the bolt and position aside the wheel speed sensor.
   

1. Remove and discard the front wheel bearing and wheel hub bolts and remove the front wheel bearing and wheel hub.
   

Installation

1. NOTICE: The wheel knuckle bore must be clean enough to allow the wheel bearing and wheel hub to seat completely by hand. Do not press or draw the wheel hub and bearing into place or damage to the bearing may occur.

   NOTICE: Make sure the wheel hub-to-wheel knuckle mating surfaces are clean and free of any adhesive. Failure to clean the adhesive from both surfaces may cause bearing damage.

   Clean and inspect the wheel hub-to-wheel knuckle mating surfaces.
   

1. NOTE: Tighten the bolts in a cross pattern.

   Position the front wheel bearing and wheel hub and install the 4 new front wheel bearing and wheel hub bolts.
   Torque:
     Stage 1:  66 lb.ft (90 Nm)
     Stage 2:  45°

1. NOTICE: Before installing a wheel speed sensor, inspect the sensor housing to make sure the sensor cavity is clean and free of foreign material or damage to the sensor may occur.

   Position the wheel speed sensor and tighten the wheel speed sensor bolt.
   Torque: 106 lb.in (12 Nm)

1. Install the brake disc.
   Refer to: Brake Disc (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).