Caution: Attempting to reduce bearing clearance by over-tightening the hub nut will result in accelerated bearing failure.
When a bearing is pressed out, it is destroyed and replaced with a new one.
Removal procedure:
- remove the steering knuckle as described above;
- install the steering knuckle on wooden supports;
- using a suitable tubular mandrel, press the hub flange out of the bearing only. If the hub was pressed out together with the inner double bearing race, pull the race off the hub using a puller;
- remove the snap ring from the groove on the steering knuckle;
- press out the remaining part of the bearing using a press, applying force to the inner ring of the bearing;
- clean the steering knuckle and hub thoroughly from grease and dirt, remove any nicks and burrs with a file. Inspect the parts for cracks and other damage. Replace the bearing and retaining ring with new ones.
Installation procedure:
- make sure (if possible) the presence of grease in the internal cavity of the bearing;
- lightly lubricate the bearing ring surfaces with grease;
Fig. 5.10. Pressing the bearing into the steering knuckle
- using a press, press the bearing into the steering knuckle using a mandrel with an outside diameter of 70 mm and an inside diameter of 66 mm, applying force to the outer ring (Fig. 5.10);
- install a new snap ring into the groove on the steering knuckle;
Fig. 5.11. Pressing the bearing onto the front wheel hub
- place the inner race on the hub and press the bearing onto the hub using a mandrel with an outer diameter of 48 mm and an inner diameter of 42 mm, applying load to the inner ring of the bearing (Fig. 5.11);
- make sure the hub flange rotates freely and remove excess grease;
- install the steering knuckle as described above.