Wheel Hub

[dont_forget]

Hey guys I have a 2001 Lincoln LS and the left front wheel hub has gone out. Just wondering how easy are those to replace?

[shorod]

That depends a bit on the tools you have, your confidence in using them, and how much salt your hub's been exposed to.

On my wife's 2002 I was not able to get the hub free from the knuckle and ended up replacing the entire knuckle and hub. While that was a bit expensive, it was pretty easy. Since I was planning to replace the ball joint too, it saved me a bit of work there as well.

Others have had absolutely no problems removing the hub from the knuckle. It's not a press fit in the knuckle, just a tight fit. Add some aluminum corrosion and it can be quite difficult.

Since it's really pretty easy to get to, it would be worth attempting to get the hub out even if you don't have a replacement in hand. If you can get it loose, you'll know you only need to order the hub. If you cannot, then you will either want to consider getting a new knuckle as well or take it to a shop and have them try it. I suspect though you can get the knuckle and the hub for less than a shop would charge you just to replace the hub, and they may end up needing to replace the knuckle anyway.

-Rod

[tkswan]

I did the both front hubs on my 02. It came apart much easier than expected. get a breaker bar. The rear was a little more involved because the bearing had to be pressed out and then back in. Good luck.