02' Rear Wheel Bearings Replacement.
My explorer has 140k on it, so I've had to replace 3 so far. I did it on a side post lift in my uncle's shop and would say it's a moderate to slightly difficult job.
The problem begins with the wheel bearing being integreated into the wheel hub, so (if I remember correctly) it was $150-300 for parts alone, and I also believe that the hub needs to be mechanically/hydralically pressed out of the spindle. I had one get stuck once and had to also buy a new spindle, which then required a new tyrod due to an update...ugh
Now, to get the hub/spindle (can't remember exactly how it went) off you need to remove the tyrod and disconnect the strut from the A-Arm, this is so that it swings out of the way to allow you to "finess" the half-shaft from the hub. (The A-arm itself needs to swing down quite a bit so this might be difficult if you are doing this with a jack/stands as it might need to be pretty high off the ground).
Note: the wheel nut requires a large socket and might be difficult (or at least take a long time) to remove without air tools.
If you decide you don't want to do this, a privately owned shop should be able to do the job just fine, and would be cheaper than the dealer.
Hope this helps!
-Steven
