Wheel Bearing Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Econoline. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .

NOTE: Make sure that the wheel rotates freely and the brake pads are retracted sufficiently to allow movement of the wheel and tire assembly.

Grasp the tire at the top and bottom and move the wheel inward and outward. If the wheel hub is loose on the spindle, carry out steps 4 through 8.
Remove the grease cap, cotter pin and the retainer nut.
Rotate the brake disc hub while adjusting front wheel bearing end play. Tighten the spindle nut.

Fig 1: Tightening Spindle Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Loosen the spindle nut two turns.

Fig 2: Loosening Spindle Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Tighten the spindle nut while rotating the brake disc counterclockwise.

Fig 3: Tightening Spindle Nut While Rotating Brake Disc Counterclockwise
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Loosen the spindle nut.

Fig 4: Loosening Spindle Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Tighten the spindle nut.

Fig 5: Tightening Spindle Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If looseness still exits or the brake disc does not rotate freely, remove and inspect the wheel bearings. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION .