Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the Bronco.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Hammer: May be needed to break loose stubborn parts.
* Large socket wrench and extensions: To remove the axle nut. This nut is VERY tight and often requires an impact wrench.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing the axle nut much easier. A breaker bar might work but will likely require significant force.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Apply liberally to all bolts and the axle nut several hours in advance to loosen rusted parts.
* Puller (hub puller): Essential for removing the hub from the axle. Different styles exist, so choose one appropriate for your Bronco's hub design.
* C-clamp (sometimes needed): Depending on the hub puller design, a C-clamp might help to provide leverage.
* Socket set: To remove caliper bolts and other potentially encountered fasteners.
* Caliper compression tool: To compress the brake caliper piston to allow for rotor removal.
* Torque wrench: To properly tighten everything back up after reassembly.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park the Bronco on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground. Raise the Bronco using a jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: Remove the caliper mounting bolts (usually two) and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. Important: Use a caliper compression tool to compress the caliper piston before removing the caliper to avoid damaging the brake system.
4. Remove the Rotor: The rotor should now be free to slide off the hub. If it's stuck, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it loose.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is the crucial, and often the hardest, step. Spray penetrating oil generously on the axle nut several hours before attempting to remove it. Use your impact wrench (or breaker bar with extreme caution). The nut will be incredibly tight.
6. Remove the Hub: Once the axle nut is off, use the hub puller to remove the hub from the axle. The puller will usually need to be bolted onto the hub and then tightened to pull it away from the axle. Follow the specific instructions for your puller. This may require considerable force.
7. Install the New Hub (if replacing): If replacing the hub, follow the instructions that came with your new hub. The process is essentially the reverse of removal, but ensure everything is properly torqued to manufacturer specifications.
8. Reassembly: Reinstall the rotor, caliper, wheel, and lug nuts (torqued correctly). Lower the vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: If your Bronco is older, rust will be a major factor. Penetrating oil is your friend here. Apply liberally and let it sit for hours, even overnight. May need to reapply.
* Impact Wrench: An impact wrench is strongly recommended for removing the axle nut. Attempting this with just a breaker bar will be very difficult and potentially dangerous.
* Hub Puller: Make sure you get the correct hub puller for your Bronco's hub design. There are different types.
* Torque Specifications: Always tighten the axle nut and lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This information is usually found in your owner's manual or a repair manual.
If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your Bronco to a qualified mechanic. This job requires strength, the right tools, and some mechanical knowledge. Improperly performing this repair can damage your brake system or other components.
