Ok so the consensus I'm getting from previous posts is that it seems I've got a bad rear axle bearing.

I just need to get this done and over with.

Again, my disclaimer is that I'm a total novice at working on this stuff. I've watched a few YouTube videos. They are all pretty bad.

Here's what's overwhelming me about this job:
1. Removing the axle. Do I need to take apart the differential? YouTube doesn't make that clear.

2. Removing the old bearings. What's the best way? i don't have a torch or a saw that cuts through metal.

3. Pressing in the new bearings. Just hammer away using a huge socket? That definitely sounds like something I could screw up. Ha ha.

And finally, a question: how much time should I plan for to replace both sides?

Anyway I need to get this over with. I just spent like 12 hours on the bushings and suspension lift. My wife is losing her patience, taking kid duty for all that time. Is there anyone in Colorado Springs who could coach me if I get stuck? There's beer and Texas T-Bone dinner in it for anyone who can be available. That place is awesome.

Thanks!!

you should look for an ol skool chilton bible. Tons of info:
#1- after tire is off, pull the 4 nuts off the T bolts that hold the brake backing plate & axle retainer (axle w/ bearing will pull through the backing plate). you dont need to disassemble the complete diff

#2 pressing the old bearings off is the best way; however, ive never had success with my clam shell. you can cut the bearing off with a cut off wheel & grinder, just dont go all the way through to the axle shaft. I usually do 2 places then smack it with a hammer. It will shatter

#3 Step away from the internet video's your watching.... you need to press the bearing and collars on.

and finally... stating yourself as a novice, you may want to dedicate a day to knock this out. once you've done it, it can be completed in about 1-1/2 hrs start to finish.

PM me if you need the bearings pressed on or further help, Im only a few miles from you at Stetson Hills & Powers. Plus you said the magic word of " " Im a believer you should do exactly what your doing. Get your hands dirty and learn as much as you can about your Bronco. To many people dont know how their vehicle works and just pay to have things fixed, which screws you when your by yourself in BFE with a broke down Bronc.

I can let you use one of our bearing heaters if it will help. Just let me know.

Well I got the driver side off, but passenger side isn't budging.

I'm starting to think I found the source of my grinding sounds.

I think ya have a warranty claim there..... :)

If you don't have a slide hammer.......

Mount a brake drum on the hub backwards and use a heacy dead blow / rubber mallet on the drum

It looks like the axle has ball bearings on it. Can these be replaced with roller bearings?

I needed a slide hammer for one of my axles. They make easy work of it. Autozone, Advance Auto parts, they will loan a slide hammer to you for free, get one, and make it easy. I cut my old bearing off, really an easy job. Protect your eyes! And you must use a press for new bearings and retainers. Again, super easy job to press them on.

Thanks Brent. That's exactly how it went down, actually! Was working from home today and couldn't help but sneak a few "breaks" into the garage and got both axles out, cut off all bearings, pryed out the seals, and a huge thanks to DirtHeadz (Ben) for being cool about my intermittent amatueir-hour texts, and pressing the bearings on for me. A great guy, even entertained my 3 year old and got my 10 month old girl laughing in his really cool garage. Fun day today! Now I'm ready for some trails.

Oh by the way, did you know that a Mag Light makes for a perfect seal driver?

no problem... The club has a bunch of cool dudes if you ever need some guidance or help. Just keep at it and you'll be a EB pro!