[VAC] Re: wheel bearings

["pryner" <pryner@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dave,
Pulling the seal will not help as the bearing is set further back in the hub
than the seal although it will have to be removed to get the old bearing
out.  The seal should have been pushed out by the inner bearing anyway.  If
you look at the outer bearing from the outer side of the hub, you should see
two slots in the shoulder of the hub where the bearing outer race sits.
This is where you want to place your punch to drive the outer bearing from
the hub.  Using a substantial punch and a heavy hammer should persuade the
bearing race to budge.  Once it starts to move, be sure to apply blows to
the opposite side of the bearing to keep it square as possible while driving
it out.  If you are "driving" not pressing the new race into place, be sure
to lightly tap it into place at first to get it started - again as square as
possible in the hub.  If you get it cocked in the hub it will get stuck and
will not move.  As you drive it home, apply even blows around the bearing
race and work it slowly into place.  It is important to use a brass drift as
most likely you will occasionally slip off the top surface and hit the race
surface.  Anything else will ruin a new bearing.  Once the bearing appears
to be set in place, use a feeler gauge to ensure it is flat against the
bottom of the hub seating surface.  I like to use a .001 to .002 feeler
gauge to be sure.
Good Luck - it will move!
Pete