I have an 89 f-250 4X4 with a 351 engine. I would like to change the rotors, they are very ready to be changed. How do I remove the rotor? On my cars it is a very simple method. On this best it looks like I need a puller or something to get the hub off and then the rotor. Any help is definately appreciated. Great web site.

Gavin

 

Well Gavin here we go:

You will need a couple of specialty tools. One of which being a socket for the inner lock nut and the other a small dental pick or something like it and a pair of snap ring pliers. If you have never attempted this before I strongly recommend you pick up a Chilton's manual or something close to it. You could get into real trouble if you do not get those bearings properly adjusted.
I can give you a step by step procedure if you feel confident in doing it. Are you purchasing hubs with the rotors? If not you have to punch out the old wheel studs from the old rotor and install in new rotor.
Re-post if you still want to know how to do it.....

 

WEll it is starting to sound somewhat difficult. I will pick up a Chilton's tomorrow. I did a search on the site but didn't really gleam much info. Why would you want to replace the hubs? I have manaul locking hubs that seem to be in pretty good shape. I would like to keep them if at all possible. Can you please give me a step by step guide and things to look out for. Where should I get this special socket? What is the size?

THanks for your help.

 

Hello, no you don't normally change the hubs unless something happens to your bearings and the housing gets destroyed from overheated bearings. The hub and rotor will separate but you have to knock out the studs to do it. Can you tell me where you are located whether in Canada or States? I know of some companies where I live that will loan out certain tools for this job and save you from buying them unless you want. I have to head back to work but if you would still like a step by step just say the word.

 

Mike,
I live in Virginia USA. If you feel like providing step-by-step it is appreciated.

Many thanks

Gavin

 

Hi Gavin:
Well, you will need a few tools and I'm in Canada so that loaner place is no good to you.
Tools needed are: rags, snap ringpliers, 4x4 socket, chisel, hammer, block of wood, grease, socket set 3/8 drive, allen key set with 7/32, small pick or tiny screwdriver.
OK I hope that covers it!
First thing to do is to remove caliper from rotor.Then remove the lock cap with the allen key.Undo snap ring on axle and try and get that 3" diamaeter clip out from the inside of hub it is near the outer edge.Pull out assembly. Then you need to remove the outer bearing retainer which you will need the proper socket. If all else fails you can use a hammer and pin punch but you better be careful, I have done it in an emergency but I have also done lots of these jobs. Then remove outer bearing. Using a punch and hammer you should be able to drive the inner bearing and seal out..you need to buy 2 new seals too.Now that you have the hub and rotor assembly you have to separate them. This can be done 2 ways, one drive the studs out with a hammer but put a nut on it first, try and only hit it a couple of times or you will damage stud and have to purchase new ones.Separate the 2 of them and then install new rotor. Now a problem,,,you have to use the studs to hold this all together. What I do without air tools is to lay the rotor down on a piece of 2x4 and drive the studs home with a hammer and punch,make sure the studs bottom out and go in straight. Repak those wheel bearings and make sure they are not worn. Reverse order to install.
I hope I covered it as best I can..any questions let them fly..

 

Mike,
Good directions seems pretty straight forward. I do have a couple of questions though. What size is the 4X4 socket you referred to? Can I get it at Sears? Or is it a speciality tool. If so where would you advise buying one. You mentioned that the seals will probably need replacing. Should I go ahead and replace the bearing too? Don't bearings and seals often come in kits? I do not recall ever seeing seals sold seperately. I have air tools so could you give me the method for assembly using air tools.

Thanks

Gavin

 

Hi again Gavin,

Well air tools certainly makes the job a lot easier. Especially when it comes to installing and removing those studs. I always used an air hammer(if you have one) to nail those studs.
As far as I know you can buy seals separately and likely in a kit as well. You will have to check the bearings to see if they are shot but if you want to spend the extra bucks just buy new ones and dont forget you will want to repak them before putting them in hub!
Now that socket could be a problem as I'm not sure if it has a size on it. A local parts dealer such as Pet Boys or Napa can help you on that one. If you were in Canada I could send you to a good place. Hope I'm helping...

 

Mike,
You have been a great help. I will get the needed parts later this week and tackle the job upcoming weekend. I will keep you posted as to progress.

Gavin