Socket size

[nugggster2003]

What size socket do I need to take off the wheel bearing retaining nut on my 98 2wd ranger?

 

[RonD]

Not sure of the size but wheel bearing nuts are not suppose to be tight, just snug so bearings can spin freely with minimal play.
This is why these nuts will have a "keeper" of some sort so they don't unscrew.
On the 4x4 model there is a slot in the threads and a small woodruff type key is inserted, this key must be pulled out to unscrew the nut, often you need to tighten nut slightly to release pressure and remove key.

On others the nut will have fingers that stick out and after tightening a cotter pin is inserted thru the shaft
Or a nut cover with fingers, this fits over the nut and cotter pin is installed
Both keep nut from unscrewing

But for any of these, the wheel bearing nut can be removed or tighten with a pair of channel locks, pipe wrench or vise grips once the "keeper" is removed.

On the '98-'00 ranger 4x4s the wheel hub has to be replaced as a whole unit, it has "life time bearings", lol
Read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/spring07/98_00_Ranger_hub_bearing.htm

Not sure if this applies to 2WD models

 

[AgPete139]

http://www.tooltopia.com/kd-tools-2467.aspx

I believe you're talking about something like this, right?

IIRC, it's somewhere around 1-3/4" diameter. You need a 4 prong socket with a 1/2" drive.

 

[don4331]

'98 Ranger 2WD? Nut should come off with fingers...

Remove dust cap with dust cap pliers (channel lock pliers or very carefully with screwdriver)

Remove cotter pin (pliers)
Remove spindle nut retainer (fingers)

Remove spindle nut (fingers usually, pliers if you don't want to get fingers dirty).

Technically, it is 27mm aka 1-1/16". If you need a socket; something is wrong...

Installation:
Tighten nut to 17-24 in-lb while turning rotor. (I do it by feel - snug...)
Back off
Tighten to 13-21 in-lb
Install nut retainer
Back off so you can get cotter through hole in spindle
Install cotter pin
Install dust cap.

If you are removing rotor; you need to undo calipers too.

Send son to bed without supper for putting lug nuts on with impact and cross threading (reason I last had to do it....)