OK, help me with this guys..... I've seen the videos and instructions on replacing the front bearing hubs when they go out....... but also seeing listings for the bearings only. So not to sound stupid, but why would you replace the entire hub assembly, if you can just replace the bearing(s)? The "internal" bearing does not look hard to get to - I know there is a seal that that axle shaft goes through on the external side of the hub - is there a bearing in there too, and is it like impossible to get to?

And any opinions on the selection of aftermarket hub replacements out there? Any one better than another? Any to avoid??

Thanks for the help - want to keep the old truck up and running!!


2001 F250XLT 4x4 V10

 

I know my brother injected grease down through the abs sensor hole to lube the bearings on his 2000 F-350. You might check if your's is still the same setup but I know there are some threads our there about doing this for regular maintenance or to save replacement.
It won't affect the abs as it doesn't interfere with the tone wheel.

 

Only the small bearing is replaceable.

 

On the 4X4 you have the choice of a unit bearing or converting to an expensive different setup like the Spyntec. The small needle bearing on the inside of the unit is replaceable. The 2wd trucks have a different setup than the 4X4. It uses a different brake rotor, spindle and replaceable, serviceable tapered roller bearings.

The unit bearings are not made to take apart and trying to do so will likely ruin the unit. You can grease the unit bearings though, through the ABS hole.(I do) But every time you pull the abs sensor you risk damaging it, so be careful.