Are you experiencing a clunking sound coming from your Ford Focus ST’s front-end? It could be a worn-out axle hub nut. This component is responsible for securing the wheel hub to the axle and keeping everything in place. Over time, the nut can wear out, loosen up or even break, causing the wheel to wobble or detach from the car.
Replacing the axle hub nut on your Ford Focus ST is not an easy task, but it can be done with the right tools and some mechanical knowledge. If you’re up for the challenge, keep reading to learn more about the process.
Tools and Parts Needed
Before starting, make sure you have the following tools and parts:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Axle nut socket (36mm)
- New axle hub nut
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to replace the axle hub nut on your Ford Focus ST:
Step 1: Park your car on a flat surface
Park your car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Place the jack under the car’s jacking point and lift it up until the wheel is off the ground. Use a jack stand to secure the car in place.
Step 2: Remove the wheel
Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel. Set it aside in a safe place.
Step 3: Loosen the axle hub nut
Locate the axle hub nut in the center of the wheel hub. Use the socket wrench and 36mm axle nut socket to loosen the nut. You may need to use a breaker bar to get enough leverage. Do not remove the nut yet.
Step 4: Remove the brake caliper and rotor
Use a socket wrench to remove the two caliper bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Remove the caliper and hang it out of the way with a wire hanger or bungee cord. Take off the brake rotor.
Step 5: Remove the old axle hub nut
Finish removing the old axle hub nut using the socket wrench and 36mm axle nut socket. Use a rubber mallet to tap the nut if it’s stuck in place.
Step 6: Install the new axle hub nut
Thread the new axle hub nut onto the axle and hand tighten it. Use the 36mm axle nut socket and torque wrench to tighten the nut to 214 ft-lbs of torque. This is very important as over-tightening or under-tightening the nut can cause significant problems.
Step 7: Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper
Put the brake rotor back in place and reinstall the brake caliper. Tighten the two caliper bolts to 26 ft-lbs of torque.
Step 8: Reinstall the wheel
Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Lower the car back to the ground and remove the jack stand. Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs of torque.
Conclusion
Replacing the axle hub nut on your Ford Focus ST is a crucial maintenance task that should be done as soon as you notice any signs of wear or looseness. If you’re not confident in your mechanical skills, it’s best to have a professional mechanic perform this task. A worn-out axle hub nut can lead to serious safety issues, so don’t delay in getting it fixed.
