Hi,

I got a Ford Escort '86, 1.3 L. engine, European.

From the front right tire I recently started to hear a tjirping sound, sounding like a bird.
I do not believe it is the brake (although the disk i pretty worn) because I assume the sound would increase when breaking.
The sound is heard when starting from a stop, until it fades in the engine noice when in third gear.
Because of the age and distance behind, I suspect the bearing is worn out.

I have been to the below link and checked out the brake disk system, where I also found a view of the hub and
axle with the bearing shown.
However, it is not clear to me if any special tool is required to remove the hub retainer nut.
Is the nut screwn on normal threads?

http://www.autozone.com/servlet/UiBr...Parameters=005

Secondly, does anyone have the specification on the minimum thickness of the brake disk(rotor)?
And how to determine by sight that it is time to change the brake pads?

Thankful for guidance.

 

Typically to replace a wheel bearing on newer escorts you have to have a bearing removal tool, most auto parts stores loan these. Also, you'll need an assortment of sockets/ratchets, a large torque wrench with a axle nut socket, and lastly you will have to have the bearing pressed out of the hub. On a 98 escort, a wheel bearing was like $135 to have replaced at a dealer.

 

take a visit here: http://www.tomorrowstechnician.com/A..._rumbling.aspx,
for applicable vehicles: ford - 2002-2005 explorer ford escort parts; lincoln - 2003-2005 aviator and mercury - 2002-2005 mountaineer.

 

last i checked those bearings are non serviceable.you can do it sure... but its not a good idea.its easier to replace the whole hub anyway... a couple bolts, no special tools maybe an hour at the most. and you've got all new parts and nothing else that's old to go bad too. are you sure your wheel bearings are bad? jack it up, and push on the left and right side of the tire back and forth, its gonna move a little because of the steering box, also pull from underneath and behind, and push from thetop and in. if there's excess play, your"HUB" is bad and needs replaced.

 

a wornwheel bearing will not chirp,but rumble...give a low frequency droning sound.
If the rotors are scored replace them,along with new pads and an inspection for leaky calipers and rusty lines.The pads will have a groove at midpoint,which is a wear mark indicator.There is no substitute for inspection.It does'nt take that long to replace pads and rotors.I've done mine in an afternnon,but get a Chiltons/Haynes service manual if you plan on trying it yourself.Needles to say,bad brakes are going to fauil you when you need them most.
Our '95 has had a noisy speedometer,which may also be your problem..