2003 Explorer-Rear Wheel Bearings

[KStromberg]

Hey everybody, I would like to know what is involved in doing the rear wheel bearings on a 2003 Ford Explorer with 4X4. I was told by someone that the differential has to be opened up to remove the axles That is not making sense to me at all.

I have done fronts on my Mark VIII and a Dodge Dynasty but am thinking this may be a whole different story. If I can't do it myself, I am going to submit this job to my buddy who does repairs for $50/hr out of his garage. I am just trying to save money for a friend.

Thanks all!

 

[tixer]

makes sense to me. My old Town Car works the same way. since those wheels are driven, the axle shaft has to pass through the bearing, then connect to the differential.

Here's a diagram I stole from "The Ranger Station" (which means that it may match your truck exactly)

 

[J]

Hey dude, this is SUPER easy...you can definitally do it yourself. I think the hardest part is squeezing the stupid gear oil back into the diff when you're done.

Pull the diff cover, remove the 10 (or 8) MM bolt holding the big pin in. Remove the pin and then push the axles in (towards the diff). This will expose the "C" clip on the end of each axle. Slide those out and your axle will slide all the way out. If you're good...you can do it with the wheels still on.