1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Jack up the vehicle securely using jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Chock the rear wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental short circuits.
* Gather Tools: You'll need:
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Socket wrench and sockets: The size of the axle nut varies; consult your owner's manual or a repair manual for your specific vehicle to ensure you have the correct size. You'll likely need a large socket and a breaker bar or impact wrench for this.
* Hub puller: This is essential for separating the hub from the spindle. There are different types (two-jaw, three-jaw, etc.); the correct type will depend on your specific hub design. Rent one if you don't own one.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Spray this on the axle nut and any other potentially stuck parts a few hours before you begin to loosen things up.
* Hammer: May be needed to help loosen stubborn components.
* Torque wrench: For properly tightening the axle nut after reassembly (crucial for safety).
* Repair manual: Highly recommended for detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
2. Wheel Removal:
* Remove the wheel using the lug wrench.
3. Removing the Axle Nut and Retainer:
* Locate the retainer: This is usually a metal clip or a cotter pin that goes through a hole in the axle nut. Remove this retainer.
* Remove the axle nut: Use the appropriate socket and breaker bar or impact wrench to carefully remove the axle nut. It will likely be very tight. Work slowly and steadily to avoid injury.
4. Removing the Hub:
* Use the hub puller: This is the most critical step. Properly install the hub puller according to its instructions. The puller will usually have threaded rods that screw into the holes on the back of the hub. Tighten the puller slowly and carefully, applying pressure to pull the hub off the spindle. It may take considerable force. If it's particularly stubborn, give the puller a few firm taps with a hammer while turning the puller.
5. Inspecting the Hub and Other Components:
* Once the hub is removed, inspect the bearings, seals, and other components for wear or damage. If necessary, replace these parts.
6. Reassembly (Reverse order):
* Install the new hub (or refurbished hub) and any associated parts (bearings, seals).
* Install the axle nut and torque it to the manufacturer's specification using a torque wrench. This is crucial for safety.
* Install the retainer.
* Mount the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), there's likely an ABS sensor connected to the hub. Carefully disconnect the sensor and be mindful of not damaging it during the process.
* Brake Caliper: You may need to support or remove the brake caliper to get better access to the hub. Consult your repair manual for proper procedures for handling the brake caliper.
This process involves working with potentially heavy components and requires careful attention to detail. If you are not comfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly reinstalling the hub can lead to serious safety hazards. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2001 Mercury Marquis for precise instructions and torque specifications.
