However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline. Remember, this is a general guide, and you MUST consult a repair manual specific to your 2001 Mercury Villager for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. Using the wrong torque can damage components.
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 prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* 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 control arm.
* Bearing race and seal installer/remover: Specialized tools make this much easier. Improvising can damage the new bearing.
* Hammer and punch (brass is best): For carefully driving out components.
* Torque wrench: Absolutely crucial for tightening components to the correct specification.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Shop rags or paper towels: To keep things clean.
* Repair manual: Specific to your 2001 Mercury Villager. This is your bible for this job.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure: Safely jack up the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Carefully remove the brake caliper and hang it out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Do not let the brake line hang freely.
5. Remove Rotor: Remove the brake rotor. It might be held on by a few bolts or just friction.
6. Disconnect Ball Joint: This is often the trickiest part. You'll likely need a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm. Use penetrating oil to help.
7. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully unplug the ABS sensor if present.
8. Remove Axle Nut: Remove the large axle nut securing the wheel hub to the spindle.
9. Remove Hub Assembly: Once the axle nut is off, the hub assembly (which includes the bearing) should come off. This may require some persuasion.
10. Remove Old Bearing: This is where the bearing race and seal installer/remover tools are invaluable. Carefully remove the old bearing races and seals without damaging the hub assembly.
11. Install New Bearing: Using the appropriate tools, carefully press in the new bearing races and seals. Make sure they are seated correctly. Again, this is where the right tools are crucial.
12. Reassemble: Reassemble everything in reverse order, paying close attention to torque specifications from your repair manual.
13. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
14. Test Drive: After reassembly, carefully test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly vs. Separate Bearings: Some Windstars/Villagers may have a hub assembly that needs to be replaced as a unit, while others have separate bearings that can be replaced individually. Your repair manual will clarify this.
* ABS Sensor: Be extremely careful with the ABS sensor. Damage to it can lead to expensive repairs.
* Torque Specifications: Incorrect torque can severely damage components and compromise safety. Use a torque wrench and follow the specifications in your repair manual precisely.
Again, this is a complex job. If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair is far less than the potential cost of a poorly done repair leading to an accident.
