Here's a breakdown of how to replace a front wheel bearing on a 1998 Ford Contour: This is a complex job requiring mechanical aptitude and the right tools. If you're not comfortable working on cars, take it to a qualified mechanic.
Tools and Parts You'll Need:
* New wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your Contour's year and model. A parts store can help you with this. Often, these come pre-assembled in a hub assembly.
* Wheel Hub Assembly (Likely): Replacing the entire hub assembly is generally easier and recommended than just the bearing itself. It saves time and ensures proper alignment.
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, depending on your car's specific design. Consult a repair manual.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Tie rod end separator: To disconnect the tie rod end.
* Brake caliper compression tool: To compress the brake caliper piston.
* Pry bar: May be needed for various parts separation.
* Hammer and punch (possibly): Depending on the difficulty of hub removal.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Repair manual: A specific repair manual for your 1998 Ford Contour is crucial. It will provide detailed instructions and torque specifications. Haynes and Chilton are popular options.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself from injury.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts, jack up the car, secure it on jack stands, and remove the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Use the compression tool to compress the brake caliper piston. Then, remove the caliper and carefully hang it out of the way.
4. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm.
5. Disconnect the Tie Rod End: Use a tie rod end separator to disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a large nut. You'll need a strong socket and possibly an impact wrench.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: This can be tricky. Some may require pressing out the old bearing and pressing the new one in, while others require the entire hub assembly replacement. Your repair manual will tell you which is easier/best for your car.
8. Install the New Hub Assembly: Reverse the removal process. Make sure everything is properly aligned.
9. Reconnect Everything: Reattach the tie rod end, ball joint, brake caliper, and wheel.
10. Torque Specifications: Use your torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the correct specifications (found in your repair manual). Incorrect torque can lead to serious problems.
11. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car and remove the jack stands.
12. Test Drive: After reinstalling everything, take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Again, this is a complex procedure. If you are not experienced with automotive repair, take your Contour to a professional mechanic. Improperly installing a wheel bearing can lead to dangerous situations, including loss of control of your vehicle. A repair manual specific to your vehicle model is your best friend for this job.
