Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrench set (metric): Various sizes will be needed.
* Torque wrench: Essential for proper tightening to prevent damage.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly for stubborn components.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted bolts.
* Bearing puller: Specialized tool for removing the old bearing. A slide hammer style is often recommended.
* Bearing installer: Needed to properly seat the new bearing. Again, a specific tool is often necessary.
* C-clamp (possibly): Might be needed depending on the bearing removal/installation method.
* Clean rags and shop towels: To keep things clean.
* New rear wheel bearing (and possibly ABS sensor ring if damaged): Ensure you get the correct part number for your vehicle.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Jack up the rear of the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from dangling and damaging the brake line. Remove the caliper bolts and carefully set it aside.
4. Remove the Rotor: Depending on the design, you may need to remove the rotor. This might involve removing some bolts or using a rotor puller.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is often a large nut and may require a breaker bar or impact wrench. Mark the position of the nut and axle relative to each other before removing it. This is crucial for proper reassembly to avoid damaging the axle seal.
6. Remove the Axle Flange: This will expose the bearing. This step often requires a special tool or careful hammering/prying. Be extremely cautious not to damage the axle.
7. Remove the Old Bearing: This is the most challenging part. You'll need a bearing puller to remove the old bearing from the axle flange. This may require patience and the correct tool.
8. Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean the axle flange and housing. Inspect the axle for damage.
9. Install the New Bearing: Use the bearing installer to carefully and evenly press the new bearing onto the axle. Do not hammer or force it.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall the axle flange, axle nut (paying close attention to the mark you made), rotor, brake caliper, and wheel, tightening everything to the correct torque specifications (found in your repair manual).
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle and listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), the ABS sensor ring may be attached to the wheel bearing. You might need to carefully remove and reinstall it. Damage to this sensor can trigger ABS warning lights.
* Axle Seal: If the axle seal is damaged during the process, you'll need to replace it as well.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this level of car repair, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing a wheel bearing can lead to serious damage to your vehicle and potential safety hazards.
This is a general overview. Refer to a detailed repair manual specific to your 1995 Lincoln Mark VIII before attempting this repair. The specific procedures may vary slightly. Remember, safety is paramount!
