Cougar/XR7 V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Wheel Bearing: Testing and Inspection
Rear
DESCRIPTION
The rear wheel bearings are of a cartridge design and are pregreased, sealed and require no scheduled maintenance. The rear wheel bearings are
preset and cannot be adjusted. If a bearing is disassembled for any reason it must be replaced as a unit. No individual service seals, rollers or races
are available. The hub nut torque of 255-345 Nm (188-254 ft. lbs.) restricts rear wheel bearing/wheel hub relative movement and maintains axial
position of the rear hub. Due to the importance of the wheel hub nut torque/tension relationship, take the following precautions during service.
PROCEDURE
1. Since the rear wheel bearing cannot be adjusted, the rear axle wheel hub retainer must not be backed off after reaching the required torque of
255-345 Nm (188-254 ft. lbs.) during installation.
2. The rear axle wheel hub retainer and washer assembly must be replaced with a new rear axle wheel hub retainer and washer assembly whenever
the rear axle wheel hub retainer is backed off or removed. Never reuse the rear axle wheel hub retainer.
3. Power tools must not be used to tighten the rear axle wheel hub retainer or rear wheel bearing damage will result. Use a torque wrench.
4. The rear hub and rear wheel drive shaft and joint splines have an interference fit requiring special tools for disassembly. The rear axle wheel hub
retainer can be used to accomplish assembly.
