I have to replace a rear bearing on my 02 Explorer. Can someone elaborate on any processes needed to replace it? Does buying the wheel bearing repair kit avoid the need for a press tool?
Any help would be appreciated.
All I can say is that it's not the most challenging thing in the world, but it is ripe with frustration for sure.
I am sure someone will correct something I did, but here are some of the main issues that you would need to be ready for and have patience with in some cases.
1) Removing the rotor - depending on the last time you removed it and the status of the parts in there, this easy job can become frustrating as the rotor will often bind on the inner e-brake pads. Not too bad though with patience or luck.
2) You have to use a spreader to get the ball joints (2) removed from the knuckle. I have never done this without slitting the rubber protectant booty somewhere. And I have never found replacement booties, so I just get them glued back up with RTV! *laughs* Still, the right tool here helps a lot to remove those ball joints.
3) I happen to work at a factory as an engineer, so I have full access to a work shop with a nice hydraulic press that I do not have in my own garage. However, you will want a press to push out the old bearing and one to press in the new one.
NOTE : Be very careful when you push in the new bearing. It is best to push on the outer chase or you can physically damage the bearing as you press it in. I found a tool that was the same diameter as the bearing (or just barely slightly under) and used that between the press ram and the bearing to transfer the load out to where I wanted it on the bearing. With a press, this is not a bad part of the job. Without a press - good luck!! As someone else said, you can get a mechanic to press it together too.
Good luck - I hate changing the rears!
