Ford Repair: Wheel bearing, ford contour, wheel bearing

Question
I'm replacing the front right wheel bearing on a front wheel drive ford contour, and I can't seem to get the hub to come off so that I can get to the bearing. Advice?

Answer
Aaron,

Making sure that your vehicle is supported securely on jack stands, remove the brake caliper and support it with a piece of wire. Separate the  the brake disc from the hub, loosen but DO NOT remove the strut to steering knuckle pinch bolt. Separate the tie rod from the steering knuckle arm. Remove the ball joint pinch bolt and nut from the steering knuckle then using a large pry bar, pry the ball joint stud out of the steering knuckle. Loosen but DO NOT remove the upper strut to shock tower nuts. Push the driveaxle out of the hub and support the driveaxle with a piece of wire. Mark the relationship of the strut to the steering knuckle (this will simplify reassembly) then remove the strut to steering knuckle pinch bolt. Apply penetrating oil to the strut to knuckle joint, spread the pinch joint slightly with a screwdriver or pry bar. Wiggle the knuckle and hub assembly off the strut. If it is stuck, gently tap the assembly off the strut with a brass, lead orshot-filled hammer, supporting it with your other hand to prevent it from falling when it comes off the strut. I would recommend that you go to your local auto parts store (Napa, Advanced Auto or Auto Zone and pick yourself up a Haynes Repair Manual, specific to your vehicle model, make and year to assist you further. Hope that this helps and good luck.


Ken