Here's a general outline. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on your truck's exact configuration. Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and model F-150 for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Work in a well-ventilated area. Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, lug wrench, wheel chocks, socket set (metric and possibly standard), hammer, punch, pry bar, bearing separator/installer (highly recommended), torque wrench, grease gun, and a repair manual specific to your 1990 F-150. A press is ideal but not always necessary depending on the type of bearing.
* Parts: Obtain the correct replacement wheel bearing and any related seals or races (often sold as a kit). Confirm the part number with your local auto parts store using your truck's VIN.
2. Removing the Wheel and Brake Components:
* Chock the Wheels: Securely chock the wheels opposite the one you're working on.
* Raise and Secure: Safely raise the truck using the jack and place it on jack stands.
* Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
* Remove the Brake Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper and hang it from the suspension using a wire or bungee cord to prevent stressing the brake line.
* Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor (brake disc). This might require some persuasion if it's rusty. A rotor puller can help.
* Remove the Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: Remove the cotter pin securing the axle nut. Unscrew the axle nut. This will likely be very tight and require a breaker bar or impact wrench.
3. Removing the Old Bearing:
* Remove the Hub: Depending on your specific setup, the hub assembly may come off as a unit with the bearing, or the bearing might need to be pressed out. Your repair manual will provide guidance here. Some hubs are pressed onto the axle, requiring a press or a careful use of a slide hammer.
* Remove the Old Bearing and Races: Use the bearing separator/installer to carefully remove the old bearing and any associated races (inner and outer rings). Be careful not to damage the axle.
4. Installing the New Bearing:
* Clean Thoroughly: Clean all surfaces where the new bearing and races will be installed.
* Install Races (if applicable): Carefully install the new races using the proper tools. A press is highly recommended for this step.
* Install the New Bearing: Use the bearing installer to press the new bearing onto the axle. Again, a press is strongly recommended for this step to avoid damaging the bearing.
* Install the Hub (if necessary): Install the hub assembly, ensuring it seats properly.
5. Reassembly:
* Install Rotor: Reinstall the rotor.
* Install Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper and bleed the brakes if necessary (a crucial step to ensure proper braking function).
* Install Axle Nut: Tighten the axle nut to the manufacturer's specified torque. Use a torque wrench!
* Install Cotter Pin: Secure the axle nut with the cotter pin.
* Install Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Lower Vehicle: Lower the vehicle.
* Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle at various speeds to check for any noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1990 Ford F-150 is essential. This will give you precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Press: A hydraulic press makes this job much easier and safer, especially when installing bearings and races.
* Bearing Type: Wheel bearings come in different types (tapered roller, ball bearings). Get the correct type for your vehicle.
* Safety: Double-check your work and always prioritize safety. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help.
This is a complex repair. If you lack experience, having a qualified mechanic perform this repair is highly recommended to prevent damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. Incorrectly installed wheel bearings can lead to catastrophic failure.
