After the application of a couple twelve-ounce "anxiety reduction" beverages, I was ready to attempt the removal of the R65's rear wheel hub pressed-in-place outer bearing races. Just kidding about the cool ones... those came afterwards as a celebratory toast.
The 05.10.08 thread on
Rear Wheel Bearings included this tip from Rich:
I used a moderate amount of heat on the hub. Just enough to make it a bit too hot to handle comfortably without a glove / rag. You don't need a lot and a typical propane torch from the home supply store should be more than adequate for the job.Although the manual states that use of a torch on the wheel hub is a no-no, I share MrRiden's belief that
controlled heat is doable. Rich's technique produces a professional result. I done done it!
Playing a small propane torch flame around the wheel hub's exterior, near the inner race area, I gauged the temperature by applying the very scientific technique of
spit on the finger. When it lightly sizzled, I figured the hub was ready.
By using a 9-inch long drift and a small ballpeen hammer, it was a simple matter to access the exposed edge of the outer race by passing the drift through the tube spacer/wedding ring assembly. Tapping in a circular pattern moved the old race out of the hub in less than one minute. By the way, I found the job to be much simpler with the wheel propped up against the workbench rather than laying flat on the shop floor. Back and knees aren't as young as they used to be.
The outer bearing race on the hub's spline-side was in pretty good shape but the opposite number, after cleaning, looked as if it was corroded by moisture from an oil seal failure. Or something.
The outer bearing races will spend the night in the freezer. After warming the cleaned up wheel hub, a large socket, matching the outer race diameter, will be used to install the fresh races. My socket of choice is a Craftsman 30mm. Can't recommend any others as the socket wall thickness may be a variable. This is the same technique I have successfully used for bearing installations on my 1986 VW Cabriolet. Stone axe simple.
Be sure to properly pack the new bearings with fresh grease. Put a generous dollop of grease in the palm of your hand and then
wipe the bearing across the grease, pressing the grease into the rollers until it squeezes out the other side. Add more grease as required. You will see the original grease exit the bearing and your new application following it. Be generous.
Bearing races removed and spacer/wedding rings photo documented for proper reinstall. I believe everyone should keep a digital camera in their toolbox rather than rely on the sometimes questionable, "Oh, I'll remember how this fits."
I can hear the keyboards clicking already... The drive splines are cleaned but have not be regreased as yet. The heat application would waste that out of sync effort. Plus, I have more cleaning to do.
You may be able to see the pitting on the bearing race. Glad I checked and pulled 'em.
Old race wants to chat with the new kid. Local bearing supply houses can provide R65ers with correct replacement bearings and seals at very competitive prices.
Keeping the bearing races chilled while they await installation can be simplified by the use of a handy beer bottle
koozie. This pic is staged with the old bearing...
...and the cooler is for Justin. I found it in the trash barrel next to Kyle Busch's motorcoach at the last Texas race.
[smiley=beerchug.gif]
