Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* 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.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed for stubborn components.
* Pry bar: May be helpful for separating components.
* Bearing press or similar tool: Essential for pressing the old bearing out and the new one in. Improvising here can damage the hub. A slide hammer may help with removal.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening components to the correct specification.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Helps loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Clean rags and grease: For cleaning and lubricating.
* New wheel bearings (get the correct part number for your vehicle): Buy a complete hub assembly, as replacing just the bearing itself is difficult.
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 safely using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the brake caliper and hang it securely out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. You may need to compress the caliper piston if necessary.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS speed sensor if your vehicle has one.
5. Disconnect Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: Remove the large axle nut. This will require a significant amount of torque.
7. Separate the Hub Assembly: Depending on your Contour, you may need to remove cotter pins or other retaining components before removing the hub assembly from the steering knuckle. This is often the most difficult part and may require some finesse and the right tools.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: Using a bearing press (or a carefully improvised method, again consult your manual), carefully press the old wheel bearing out of the hub assembly.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Using the bearing press, carefully press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly. Make sure it's seated correctly and evenly.
10. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in reverse order, ensuring everything is properly aligned and tightened to the correct torque specifications (critical). Pay close attention to the order and alignment of components.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle carefully to ensure the new bearing is functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Notes:
* Wheel Bearing Hub Assemblies: Often, it's easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire wheel hub assembly rather than just the bearing itself.
* Torque Specifications: This is paramount. Incorrect torque can lead to premature bearing failure or damage to other components.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly installed bearings can lead to serious safety hazards.
Remember: This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Ford Contour for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage.
