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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.5 L, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 246 (Front Suspension - 4WD Torsion Bar) >> Adjustments & Inspection >> Wheel Bearing Inspection

Wheel Bearing Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger, 2003 Ford Ranger, and 2002 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: An assistant will be needed for this procedure.

Position the vehicle on a hoist. Carry out the following steps.

  1. Engage the transfer case to the 4WD high position. With the vehicle in DRIVE, run the vehicle to 25 MPH.
    NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with a limited slip front axle, both the wheels will be turning. Evaluate both wheels at this time.
  2. Evaluate the front wheel that is turning. Place the stethoscope on the steering knuckle near the wheel bearing. Make a mental note of the sound. Using the brakes, stop the wheels from turning.
    NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with a limited slip front axle, do not hold the wheel. Evaluate both simultaneously.
  3. Evaluate the other front wheel. While holding the previously evaluated wheel, run the vehicle to 25 MPH. Place the stethoscope on the knuckle near the wheel bearing. Make a mental note of the sound. Using the brakes, stop the wheels from turning.
  4. Compare the results. If one side sounds significantly louder than the other or both sides sound equally loud, go to next step. If both sides sound similar (not loud or noisy), the wheel bearings are okay.
  5. Install the dial indicator gauge with holding fixture (D78P-4201-B), to the steering knuckle. Place the probe on the brake disc where the splash shield has a "V" opening. Make sure the probe can move in a lateral direction. Tighten the neck of the probe.
  6. Push the wheel inward at the 6 o'clock position. Set the dial indicator to zero. Pull the wheel outward at the 6 o'clock position. Record the measurement. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times. If the wheel bearing endplay is greater than 0.005" (0.13 mm), install a new hub and bearing assembly. See HUB & WHEEL BEARINGS  article in REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. If the wheel bearing endplay is less than 0.005" (0.13 mm), the wheel bearing is within specification. Go to the next step.
  7. Remove the wheel hub. See HUB & WHEEL BEARINGS  article in REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
  8. With the wheel hub unit on a bench, rotate the outer flange of the wheel bearing while applying downward pressure. If the wheel bearing rotates freely, without roughness or noise the wheel bearing is okay. If the wheel bearing does not rotate freely, or makes noise, install a new hub and bearing assembly. See HUB & WHEEL BEARINGS  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
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