Here's a general overview. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on the Festiva's year and model. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe lifting.
* Wheel chocks: For safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
* Tie rod end separator: To separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. (May be integrated with the ball joint separator)
* Brake caliper removal tool: To compress the caliper piston. This allows you to remove the caliper and rotor without damaging the brake lines.
* Hub nut socket: This is often a large, specialized socket.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed for stubborn parts.
* Wheel bearing press: This is crucial for properly installing the new bearing. Improper installation without a press will almost certainly damage the bearing.
* Torque wrench: Absolutely essential for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* New wheel bearing: Make sure you get the correct part for your vehicle.
General Steps (This is NOT a complete guide – consult your repair manual):
1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle using jack stands and wheel chocks. Engage the parking brake.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use the brake caliper removal tool to compress the caliper piston. Remove the caliper and hang it safely out of the way using a wire or bungee cord; don't let the brake line hang freely.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor (brake disc).
5. Disconnect the Ball Joint and Tie Rod End: Use the ball joint and tie rod end separators to carefully separate them from the steering knuckle. This often requires considerable force and care to avoid damage.
6. Remove the Hub Nut: This will likely be very tight. Use a breaker bar if necessary. The hub nut is often left-hand threaded. Double-check this before you start turning it!
7. Remove the Axle Nut and Hub Assembly: Once the hub nut is off, the hub assembly should come off, usually with the old bearing still attached.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to carefully press the old bearing out of the hub assembly.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to carefully press the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated correctly and evenly.
10. Reassembly: Reinstall the hub assembly, axle nut (tighten to spec), tie rod end, ball joint, rotor, brake caliper, and wheel. Tighten all bolts to the correct torque specifications as detailed in your repair manual.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your Ford Festiva's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improper installation can lead to serious safety hazards. If you're not comfortable with this process, take your Festiva to a qualified mechanic. It's much safer and often less expensive in the long run than doing it incorrectly.
