Installing new front wheel bearings

I put my bearings in the freezer prior to install. I do not use any grease, I don't want it to get scraped down and potentially pack up under my bearing. But I know you would not over grease. A benefit of freezing the bearing besides shrinking it slightly, is that it sweats a little and gives a "lubricant".

Obviously start as straight as possible. Seated when the sound changes.

There are many ways to properly hunt this deer, that's just what has worked for me for decades without issues.

DON'T FORGET THE MIDDLE SPACER!!!!

Sometimes I start with an oversized driver until I get close to flush, and then switch to correct size to finish it off into the recess.

And, yes, you are likely overthinking it. But I know you would rather do that than under think.

DON'T FORGET THE MIDDLE SPACER!!!!

 

I think there is a preferred "reference" side in the manual; that is the first bearing installed and driven home until it is properly seated. The second bearing has the spacer to rest against and I have interpreted that as meaning you should drive that home until the bearing inner is in contact with the spacer but not under tension. Ultimately the axle will be clamping both bearing inners against the spacer and you don't want undue axial loads being created in the bearing.

On the 5th gen, the right bearing goes first.

 

I have not done a 5th Gen or later front wheel yet. Terry, have you found you get a distinct audible indication when the 2nd bearing finds its "home" adjacent to the spacer, but before you keep driving everything too far?

 

I think I've only ever replaced bearings in maybe 4 wheels in my motorcycling life, not really enough to know what I am talking about with any confidence. I do know there is a distinct audible difference when you hit your thumb instead of the bearing driver.