How to Install the Hub Bearing on a 1997 Expedition

The front-wheel bearings in the 1997 Expedition, equipped with a four-wheel-drive system, are sealed in a hub-and-bearing assembly. When the bearings in the front hub assembly fail, the whole hub should be replaced. This simplifies the repair and ensures that the hub and the bearing are both in good condition after the repair is complete. The home mechanic can complete this repair in less than two hours with basic hand tools and equipment that is available at most large auto parts stores.

Instructions

1

Set the parking brake and block the rear wheels with wheel chocks for safety. Raise and support the front of the Expedition, using a floor jack positioned under the front cross-member, and jack stands placed under the frame. Lower the jack until the vehicle rests on the stands, for added safety.

2

Remove the front wheel on the side that has the faulty hub bearing, using a lug wrench. Remove the two 13-mm caliper bolts that attach the caliper to the caliper bracket, using a 13-mm wrench. Lift the caliper off the bracket and place it on top of the upper control arm, to prevent damage to the rubber brake hose.

3

Remove the two 15-mm caliper bracket bolts that attach the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle, using a 15-mm socket and ratchet. Lay the caliper bracket aside and slide the rotor off the hub assembly.

4

Remove the cotter pin and castellated retainer from the end of the axle, using a pair of wire cutters to straighten the cotter pin. Remove the axle nut, using a 35-mm axle socket and breaker bar. Place a punch in the end of the axle and loosen the axle in the hub splines by striking the punch with a hammer to drive the axle into the hub.

5

Remove the three 15-mm bolts from the back of the steering knuckle, using a socket and ratchet. Slide the old hub out of the steering knuckle and off the axle.

6

Wipe away any dirt, debris and grease from the steering knuckle, using a shop towel. Install the new hub over the axle and into the knuckle. Torque the 15-mm retaining bolts to between 110 and 148 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench

7

Reinstall the brake rotor. Bolt the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle and torque the bracket bolts to between 125 and 169 foot-pounds. Slide the caliper onto the bracket and reinstall the caliper bolts. Torque the caliper bolts to between 21 and 26 foot-pounds.

8

Reinstall the wheels. Raise the Ford off the jack stands and remove the stands. Lower the jack until the wheels touch the ground and torque the lug nuts to 100 foot-pounds. Lower the jack and remove it from under the Expedition. Pump the brake pedal a few times and test-drive the vehicle to verify that the noise or vibration is gone.