Front wheel berings

Have not been on site since late spring and the site looks different/good! Next project is front bearings. Does anyone have comments on the degree of difficulty? The Haynes Manual makes it look somewhat simple, but based on other work I've done on this bike, I expect more difficult than first blush.

'83 XJ 750 maxim (25 K miles and strong)

 

well I did mine without any problems , but on a 600 not a 750, but procedure will be the same.
removed old ones without any fancy extractors, just used a long drift.
new ones slipped right in by freezing bearings, and warming race.
theres a tutorial by bigfitz on here somewhere.
the "nack" is moving the centre collar over a bit to get a drift on the bearing, but its no "biggie"
stu

 

When I do something, I have a formula. I figure how long it should me, double it, then add an hour.
It comes out just about right. Anything less than that and I'm dancing naked on the tabletops. (Not a pretty sight.)

 

A fine guide to wheel bearing replacement can be reviewed at:

http://xjbikes.com/forums/index.php?threads/35134

and

http://www.xj4ever.com/wheel bearing replacement.pdf

 

While you're there: Inspect tire wear indicators and tire/wheel condition (including air pressure). Clean and re-lube speedo gear. Lube speedo cable. Visually inspect caliper(s) seals and pads. Flush and top-off m/c. Re-place fork oil as needed and shore all fasteners to torque spec. If you have not done the rear wheel bearings this might be a good time to do them as well. Fwiw it's very difficult to remove the double bearings in the rear wheel w/o a tool. Hope this help.

Gary H.

 

Fitz's guide is amazing
I did mine, got to a point where I could not go any further
walked away and came back and went barbaric with a hammer and blade
screw driver
I got the old ones out, new ones in
Lubed good to go
it is something that must be done
went to change the rear ones, and bam they were already new
score previous owner!

 

Thanks all ...... Not sure if bearings need replacement but doubt PO(s) ever dealt with this PM. I looked through the links provided and helps with confidence. Waiting for garage to warm up prior to working out there!

 

it is a 20 dollar part that can save your life
just replace when in doubt

 

Best advice, take your time and be patient. Pay attention of the placement of spaces and washers...very important. I used a long shaft screwdriver to lever the spacer that is in between the two bearings inside the wheel to the side so I could start to tap out the bearing. If you don't do this, then you need a bearing puller. It is actually easy once you have done it, but the first time is a learning curve. Reinstalling the new bearings, used the old bearings on top of the new bearings to tap them in place. Good Luck and Happy New Year!