Rust in wheel bearing

[slomove]

Just doing some general maintenance on my Birkin and found a front wheel bearing having a little play. Opened up and found furthermore that there is too little grease that is rusty red and the main nut having some rust spots. Looks like I got water in there some time ago.

 

The bearing rollers of the outer bearing are not obviously corroded and don't make any noise but I will replace the bearings anyway.

 

Now my question is how probable is it that the hub race surface is damaged and I need to replace the hub?

 

Thanks

[11Budlite]

Gert - You shouldn't have to replace the hub. The new bearing should come with a new outer race. The outer race just gets installed into the hub with a bearing driver, or if you're careful with a drift (preferably brass).

[slomove]

Gert - You shouldn't have to replace the hub. The new bearing should come with a new outer race. The outer race just gets installed into the hub with a bearing driver, or if you're careful with a drift (preferably brass).

 

There is a problem. I can knock out the outer smaller race but the inner race is completely recessed. I suspect I will need some kind of puller with very sharp jaws.

[jlumba81]

Your local auto parts store should have the tools you need for purchase or for loan. Or you could take the part to a local shop to have the race removed for you.

[slomove]

Based on some smart folks' advice I welded 3 knobby beads to the inside of the race surface and got them out with a pilot bearing puller. The heat shock probably helped breaking them loose.

 

Pretty easy once you know how to do it.:willy_nilly:

[jlumba81]

Cool. Thanks for sharing that tip. Haven't heard of doing that before..