Wanted wheel bearing (front) replacement wisdom needed

[fynney1]

My right front wheel bearing (2003 Explorer 4X4 Limited with V8) has been "growling" the last 4000 miles, and my gas mileage is dropping. Time to replace. Any words of wisdom? Special tools that I should have on hand? Estimated time to R&R? Suggestions for "how to" websites? I have not replaced a bearing since 1976 in my '67 Fairlane, so help is much appreciated!

 

[chance942]

It's from the Gen 2 but perhaps you can compare your set up w/ this and get an idea of what is invloved.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=165429


browse autozone,they have the timken hub assembly for my 2000 for $150(timken is your best quality buy here and 150 is CHEAP for these things)

 

[EasyRhino]

Do a search, somewhere here is a nice write up w/ pics, although it's been awhile seen I saw it.

Did both my fronts about 1 1/2 years ago, not that bad really. The three bolts that bolt the assembly to the knuckle are a bi of a biotch to remove/install due to space restrictions, but are doable. The axle nut is a big whammer jammer but not that hard to untorqe with the right socket.

The first side took me about 1 1/2 hours, the second side about 30 minutes.

I had not done a job of this magnitude in many many years, either, but turns out it was not so bad.

 

[steverae]

Kinda difficult, do you have an air chisel? Or a bolt on slapping hammer? I do a lot of these.

 

[thepotroast]

Here's the How To on replacing your front hub/bearing assembly on 02-05 Explorers. I followed this guide and also posted my own pictures in the same post....I would read each post in there, there's a lot of great info and tips.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=194002

Also, you will see some posts in there where I mention a "contact" to get you the OEM front hub/bearing assemblies for $100 + shipping....which is still much cheaper than aftermarkets from auto parts stores, and certainly cheaper than from the dealer...I believe this deal can still be had. If you're interested and want to buy one or both, pm me and I can foward the info of the seller of these.

Good luck.