Rear axle

[Kenthammer]

Guys

Sorry not trying to hijack this thread, but cannot see a point in starting another on a similar issue.

I have some play with the rear wheel off the ground, so intend to replace the needle roller and radial bearings.

Is there any tips for removal and replacement without the usual workshop drivers and presses and the normal home workshop tools.

I have searched for tips without success, so apologies if they are already on the forum.

[dx400r]

Yes Kenthammer,

Having had to do this a few times.

You will need some circlip pliers for this no matter what. There is a HUGE one that holds the caliper carrier onto the hub which until its off, the hub is going nowhere.

There are some circlips that hold the bearings in but when they have grease on them they are almost invisible so make sure you have a good rummage around on either side of the hub before you try driving them out.

Also get the rubber seals out of the way before you get too into this job.

You can use a big screwdriver (that you dont mind ruining) as a punch on the ball bearing side if you dont have any punches. However a good set of drifts/punches is a good idea.

As for the needle roller side. If you have a good thin drift you can pry the needle bearing cage out of the bearing and then drive on the edge of the metal sleeve left behind hitting it one side then the other.

Once you have the bearings out you can use the old one as a driver to get the replacements in.

Hope this helps.

[Kenthammer]

Thanks mate

[speedy231278]

I'd really, REALLY not use a screwdriver on the hub to drive the bearings out, I reckon you'd be there all week, never mind risk knackering the inside of the hub! It won't take so very long on a bearing press to get them out, so it would be much better to take them to someone properly equipped. I'd also recommend using a press to install them as it will be quicker and more accurate. Plus, on one side you have two bearings to drive in!

[Kenthammer]

Thanks for the advice. I have a set of bearing drivers that drift everything out.

As far as installing the bearings, as I do not possess a press, I will probably get my local bike shop to press them in.

I don't pick up the bearings and assorted clips, seals etc until next week, so I can have a look at them and make a decision

Cheers

[dx400r]

I'd really, REALLY not use a screwdriver on the hub to drive the bearings out, I reckon you'd be there all week, never mind risk knackering the inside of the hub! It won't take so very long on a bearing press to get them out, so it would be much better to take them to someone properly equipped. I'd also recommend using a press to install them as it will be quicker and more accurate. Plus, on one side you have two bearings to drive in!

You're totally right speedy. I was going back to the days where I actually didnt have anything. It was a big flathead with a beefy handle to hammer on. I do recall having to get help for the needle roller when I wasnt tooled up for it.