Has anyone replaced front wheel bearings manually with a drift and hammer? Is it do-able?

Or for required forces and access, is it best to use a press?

I've done plenty bearings in the past on the bike with a drift / hammer, but after a bit of searching on replacement on the S, I don't think I've seen anyone mention doing it this way.

Thanks in advance.

 

While anything is possible I don't think it is feasible to try using a hammer to do this job. Take a look at the threads showing how to do it and locate a local shop to press the bearings. I was disappointed enough in my local options I just bought a press from Harbor Freight for just over $100.

 

Yeah, I couldn't quite decide from all of the threads on replacement if it was alright to do with a drift.

Thanks for your response.

May just get a press and crack on.

 

i dont think you will be able to. the bearing is very tight in there and even with a press i had to have quite a bit of pressure before it broke the initial tension.

 

What size press were you using? 12t suitable?

 

Man we got a 20 ton press at my buddy's shop, and the cool thing is it has a gauge telling you how much pressure is being exerted. The bearings took like 3 tons to press in, and the hub was a little bit less. Compared to pressing in rifle barrels on an AK which take 12-15 tons, pressing in bushings and bearings is cake.

 

Thank you for that response!

I had someone else in the UK forum state that it took him 4 tonne for his bearing. So, I'm glad to see at least 2 people with fairly consistent force requirements for the job.

 

We did hit the bore of the knuckle with some fine sand paper and grease, so that's probably why it was a little less.