Tools and Parts You'll Likely Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential for specific torque specs and procedures.
* Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly: This is usually sold as a complete unit, not individual parts. Make sure you get the correct part number for your specific truck (check your VIN or the old bearing).
* Jack and Jack Stands: Safely support the vehicle.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel Chocks: For safety.
* Impact Wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing and installing the axle nut much easier.
* Socket Set: Various sizes, including the one for the axle nut (likely a large size).
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts and nuts to the correct specifications.
* Pry Bar or Slide Hammer: May be needed to remove the hub assembly.
* Penetrating Oil: Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Clean Rags: To keep things clean.
* Grease: For repacking the new bearing (if it's not pre-greased).
* Ball Joint Separator: May be needed to separate the ball joint from the knuckle.
* Caliper Compression Tool: To compress the brake caliper piston.
General Steps (Refer to your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Secure the truck on level ground using jack stands and wheel chocks. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the Wheel and Tire: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. You may need to compress the brake caliper piston to make room for the rotor.
4. Remove the Rotor: The rotor should now come off.
5. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually very tight. Use an impact wrench if possible. Mark the nut's position relative to the axle before removing it to ensure proper reinstallation.
7. Separate the Ball Joint: This step requires a ball joint separator. Use caution not to damage the ball joint.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: Depending on your truck, you may need to use a pry bar or slide hammer to separate the hub assembly from the spindle.
9. Install the New Hub Assembly: Carefully install the new hub assembly, ensuring it seats correctly.
10. Tighten the Axle Nut: Tighten the axle nut to the specifications in your repair manual.
11. Reinstall Everything: Reinstall the rotor, caliper, wheel, and lug nuts in reverse order of removal. Tighten lug nuts to the correct torque spec.
12. Lower the Vehicle and Test: Lower the vehicle safely. Check for proper wheel bearing function. A slight hum or growl is not necessarily a sign of failure; a significant noise is a problem.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: Be careful not to damage the ABS sensor.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and follow the specifications in your repair manual. Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure or damage.
* Preload: The axle nut has a specific preload. Failure to correctly set the preload will lead to bearing failure.
* Professional Help: This is a complex job. If you are not comfortable with automotive repair, take your truck to a qualified mechanic.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1996 Ford F250 4x4 before starting this repair. Improper installation can lead to serious injury or damage.
