Here's a general overview of the process. This is not a comprehensive guide and may vary slightly depending on the year and specific model of your Ford Five Hundred. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for precise instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed for stubborn components.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the control arm from the knuckle.
* Press or bearing separator: To remove and install the bearing. This is usually the most difficult part and often requires specialized tools.
* Penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* New wheel bearing hub assembly: Make sure you get the correct part for your vehicle.
* Clean rags and shop towels: Keep things clean and prevent damage.
* Repair manual: Specific to your year and model Five Hundred.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Usually involves removing a bolt or two to allow you to move the caliper out of the way. You may need to support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake line.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire.
5. Disconnect Control Arm: This usually involves separating the ball joint from the control arm. This often requires a ball joint separator tool.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: This is typically a large nut on the axle shaft. You may need a breaker bar or impact wrench to loosen it.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: With the control arm and axle nut dealt with, you should be able to carefully remove the hub assembly. This may require some persuasion.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: This is where the press or bearing separator is crucial. Attempting this without the proper tools can easily damage the new hub assembly.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Carefully press the new bearing into the new hub assembly using your press.
10. Reassembly: This is the reverse of the disassembly process. Pay close attention to the torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. Double-check everything before lowering the vehicle.
11. Lower Vehicle and Test: Lower the vehicle safely and test the wheel for proper rotation and smooth operation.
Important Considerations:
* Pressing the bearing: This is the most technically difficult step and requires specialized tools. Improperly pressing the bearing can lead to damage and premature failure.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque specifications is crucial to prevent premature wear and tear and ensure proper safety. Always consult your repair manual.
* ABS Sensor: Be careful with the ABS sensor; damage to the sensor can lead to ABS system problems.
This process is significantly more involved than a simple bolt-on replacement. Again, if you are not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, please take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Attempting this without the proper tools and knowledge can lead to damage to your vehicle and potentially injury.
