Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed to separate components.
* Socket set and ratchet: Various sizes will be needed.
* Pry bar: Might be helpful for separating parts.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Wheel bearing press: Highly recommended. This tool is specifically designed to safely press the old bearing out and the new one in. Improper installation without a press can damage the bearing and the hub assembly.
* New rear wheel bearing assembly: Make sure you get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Grease: Pack the new bearing with the correct type of grease.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Always wear appropriate safety gear.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Raise the rear of the vehicle using the jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor: You'll need to remove the brake caliper (usually with a bolt or two) and carefully hang it out of the way. Then remove the brake rotor. Some rotors are bolted on, others may slide off after removing caliper.
4. Remove the Axle Nut and Backing Plate: The axle nut is typically very large and tight. Use penetrating oil and a breaker bar if necessary. Once the axle nut is off, remove the backing plate (the metal shield behind the rotor).
5. Remove the Axle Flange: This step might require some persuasion with a pry bar and hammer. Be careful not to damage the axle or surrounding components.
6. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing: This is where the wheel bearing press is essential. The press will carefully remove the old bearing from the hub assembly. Attempting to remove it with a hammer and chisel is extremely risky and likely to damage the hub.
7. Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean the hub assembly, removing any old grease or debris. Inspect the hub for any damage.
8. Install the New Wheel Bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to carefully install the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated correctly.
9. Pack with Grease: Pack the new bearing with the correct type of grease.
10. Reassembly: Carefully reassemble everything in reverse order of disassembly. Pay close attention to the order of parts and make sure everything is aligned correctly.
11. Torque Specifications: This is critical. Tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure or damage.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle to ensure the new bearing is functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly Replacement: Sometimes, the entire hub assembly is replaced instead of just the bearing. This is often more cost-effective and less prone to error, especially if the hub itself shows signs of wear.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic. This is not a beginner-level repair.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2002 Ford Explorer XLT 2WD is invaluable. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
This guide provides a general overview. Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific procedures and torque specifications before attempting this repair. Improper repair can result in damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself.
