The 1999 Ford Escort uses a sealed front axle bearing that is machine pressed into the front steering knuckle on each side. These bearings are not serviceable like older style tapered roller bearings that can be repacked with grease and adjusted when reinstalled; replacing the sealed front axle bearing instead requires a large hydraulic press to remove and install a new sealed bearing assembly.
Place wheel chocks behind each of the rear tires to prevent vehicle movement during the repair. Lift the front of the vehicle with the floor jack until the wheels are off the ground. Place jack stands under the front sub-frame, and lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Remove the front wheel using the lug wrench, and store it along with the lug nuts in a safe place.
Remove the axle nut using the 35mm axle nut socket and breaker bar. Use the hammer and punch to push the axle into the hub assembly. Remove the front brake caliper by unbolting the two slide pins that attach it to the steering knuckle and lifting it out of the way. Slide the rotor off the hub assembly.
Disconnect the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle by removing the attaching nut, and separating the tie rod from the steering knuckle with the tie-rod removal tool and a hammer. Remove the two bolts attaching the strut to the steering knuckle, and pull the steering knuckle forward to separate it from the strut. Remove the lower ball joint bolts, and lift the steering knuckle clear of the axle and out of the wheel well.
Have the new bearing installed in the steering knuckle at an auto parts store or auto repair shop.
Install the steering knuckle onto the axle, and bolt the lower ball joint into place. Reattach the steering knuckle to the strut and tighten the bolts securely. Reinstall the tie rod end on the steering knuckle. Recheck all bolts for tightness to prevent mistakes. Torque the axle nut to 120 foot-pounds with the torque wrench.
Slide the rotor onto the hub assembly, and reinstall the caliper. Replace the wheel, and tighten the lug nuts to 80 foot-pounds with the torque wrench. Raise the Escort off the jack stands, remove the stands, and lower the vehicle to the ground. Recheck the lug nut torque to prevent mistakes.
Have a full four-wheel alignment done at an auto repair shop. This will reset the camber and toe angles that are disturbed during the repair, and prevent tire damage.
