Wheel bearings

Has anyone had any problems with Explorers and wheel bearings? I have a 2002 with a little over 50K miles on it. It's currently in the shop for its second wheel bearing replacement (rear rt wheel). The first bearing replacement (front rt wheel) was literally two months ago. Is it normal for a car to wear through wheel bearings so quickly? Am I doing something wrong?

This is my third vehicle and I've driven other cars to nearly 200K miles and never had to replace the wheel bearings...... I think I may have bought a lemon!

The wheel bearings are a problem w/ the newer independent rear axle Explorers/Mountaineers. We have 4 rear bearings on our shelves at all times and we stock the front hubs also...if that gives you a clue. As far as why your particular Expo is shredding bearings so quickly...I couldn't say. My guess is that it's not something you're doing, but rather that the bearings aren't rated high enough for the weight of the truck, which means...someone screwed up(Ford Engineers???) If you were replacing the same bearing I would be suprized but at least its using up spinners on different wheels. BTW. Are you using a Ford bearing, or an aftermarket brand...that may make some difference. The Ford front hub is an updated part, so it's probably better than the factory part...the rear unfortunately is not updated. Good Luck. I hope this helps. MM.