This thread is part of a series, you can find the list of all other threads related to my overall restoration here: ColtMax's 1997 Restoration thread
As part of my 1997 vmax restoration, I want to replace the wheel bearings, seals and any other parts that needs to be replaced. I know bearing removal and installation can be a challenging task when not equipped properly. I have a few bearing pullers, but nothing that can be used for the wheel bearings of the Vmax.
Lets start with the front wheel:
FRONT WHEEL
Parts:
Bearing Removal:
I have initially tried to use the method described in the Clymer Shop manual which consists of using a punch on the inner face of the bearing. Initially the inner face cannot be reached, but by tilting the spacer (#2 in the above diagram) you can get some surface to reveal.
Unfortunately I was not able to go that route, the revealed edge was not enough and my punch was probably not the best quality.
I decided to invest another 40$ into a very cool bearing puller kit: Amazon Link
I was amazed how easy the task became using that kit. Here is how I used it:
1- Start to remove the seal from the ball bearing
2- Force two adequate puller feet in the bearing using a hammer, this will deform the ball retainer and make room for the feet to go in:
3 - Rotate the feet 90 degree so the edges will grab both bearing races, inner and outer.
4- Create an assembly with the puller similar to this:
I used two metal blocks and a metal bar to create a seating surface. You may want to drill a small centering hole for the puller screw to keep steady on the metal bar.
5- Pull this baby out!
Honestly, using this tool has been so satisfying, I am really glad I bought that kit.
As part of my 1997 vmax restoration, I want to replace the wheel bearings, seals and any other parts that needs to be replaced. I know bearing removal and installation can be a challenging task when not equipped properly. I have a few bearing pullers, but nothing that can be used for the wheel bearings of the Vmax.
Lets start with the front wheel:
FRONT WHEEL
Parts:
Bearing Removal:
I have initially tried to use the method described in the Clymer Shop manual which consists of using a punch on the inner face of the bearing. Initially the inner face cannot be reached, but by tilting the spacer (#2 in the above diagram) you can get some surface to reveal.
Unfortunately I was not able to go that route, the revealed edge was not enough and my punch was probably not the best quality.
I decided to invest another 40$ into a very cool bearing puller kit: Amazon Link
I was amazed how easy the task became using that kit. Here is how I used it:
1- Start to remove the seal from the ball bearing
2- Force two adequate puller feet in the bearing using a hammer, this will deform the ball retainer and make room for the feet to go in:
3 - Rotate the feet 90 degree so the edges will grab both bearing races, inner and outer.
4- Create an assembly with the puller similar to this:
I used two metal blocks and a metal bar to create a seating surface. You may want to drill a small centering hole for the puller screw to keep steady on the metal bar.
5- Pull this baby out!
Honestly, using this tool has been so satisfying, I am really glad I bought that kit.
