Changing Front Wheel Bearings

[beagle]

Sorry if this is a basic question, I searched the forum with no luck...

I'm changing my front wheel bearing. I've removed the bearing from the hub (the bit the disc bolts to) with a bearing puller.

How do I get the new bearing on? Can I do it without hydraulic press?

When restoring gearboxes I've warmed the bearing in the oven. I imagine this would damage the rubber seals on a wheel bearing?

 

[Steve Hennessey]

I managed to do mine without a press but I fitted the bearings in the stub axle first using a combination of drifts and a large vice. I then carefully tapped the hub into the bearings but the rear bearing must be supported. Using a press is a far better option as it really needs to go on at the first attempt. Do clean the hub shaft where it goes through the bearings with emery cloth - if you remove all the imperfections and make it nice and smooth it will make the non-press method a lot easier.

 

[beagle]

Thanks Steve, your nice genuine wheel bearing is in it's proper place. I used a big socket as a guide and a larger hammer.

How pleased I was to find the kit came with a new hub nut

 

[Steve Hennessey]

Happy to oblige and glad to hear that the old fashioned method worked (this time)