In a redesign brought about by the highly publicized roll-over problem experienced with previous generations of Explorer, Ford equipped the five-door SUV with independent rear suspension starting with the 2002 model year. On your 2003 Ford Explorer, the wheel bearing -- part of the wheel hub -- mounts on the axle spindle and is held in place with a spindle nut.
Tighten the front spindle nut to 184 foot-pounds. On the rear, replace the nut and tighten it to 203 foot-pounds. During disassembly, remove the wheel and tire before you loosen the axle wheel hub retainer. If the wheel bearing is unloaded with vehicle weight applied, you can damage the bearing.
