Tool kit for replacing wheel bearings

[zabir]

I would like to replace the front wheel bearings. What tool would I require and where can I find them cheap?

[Bill]

(07-02-2010, 10:49 PM)zabir Wrote:  I would like to replace the front wheel bearings. What tool would I require and where can I find them cheap?

Hi zabir,
We need a little more information to provide you with the answers of which you seek. For instance what kind of bike do you have, what size is is the wheel? Maybe a picture if you can upload it. As far as the proper tools we need just a little more information.


Bill

[cyclerUK]

You will need a thin flat cone spanner for the cone nuts. The outside locknut can adjusted/undone with a normal spanner:-
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_an-z.html#axleset

and:-
http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=105

There are different size spanners so check out your LBS for one.

[Joe_W]

You will also need tweezers to pick the bearing balls out of the bearing and to put them in again.

(+ rags, degreaser and grease and I usually replace the balls with new ones as it is a hassle to get them really clean and they cost close to nothing)

[Bill]

As for where to find them you can shop online or go to Local Bike Shop. Best online place well there are a couple, like http://www.amazon.com , http://www.ebay.com , or a website in your country that deals with bicycle parts and tools.

To add tweezers are great idea for picking out the bearings but a pen type magnet can be used too (although not as precise as tweezers). Grade 25 chrome steel is the best but you can get away with Grade 100. Difference in those is the hardness.

[cyclerUK]

Never used tweezers or a magnet but good ideas.

Undo one side and withdraw axle.
Unless the cones are pitted / worn then leave one cone/locknut side on. (don't move it)

Clean out hub, cups, balls and both cones.

Re-assembly:-

a) Some hubs have a dust caps so:-
Make sure you have equal number of balls.
Grease one cup and push axle in from other side only far enough to stop balls from falling into hub center.
Fit 1/2 the balls in the cup.
The grease will hold the balls in place.
Drop axle out and re-insert into side with balls in.
Turn wheel over and do the same to the second cup / balls.
Push axle completely in.
Now re-fit second cone etc' and adjust.

b) If the hub doesn't have dust caps (old style).
Then the balls can be fitted with the axle in place most of the way.
Grease both cups.
Put axle in with the fixed cone up but leave a gap to drop balls in.
Once balls are in push axle completely in so that the balls are held.
Turn wheel over, holding axle so it doesn't drop out.
Screw on loose cone leaving a gap for remaining balls.
Fit balls and then secure cone, locknut etc.
Adjust.

[Bill]

Nice instructions cycler