Pilot Bearing Removal with Toilet Paper, Way to Funny, Pics

wrogers55 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-06-2010, 09:43 PM

It all started with a simple clutch adjustment on jack stands. Then I decided to seal up the leaks and it needed a new clutch. The lift was occupied with a left over project, so under I went. Got down to the pilot bearing and it wouldn't come out, bearing puller wouldn't budge it, slide hammer wouldn't budge it.

Just out of total frustration, I decided to try the wet toilet paper trick. I know others have said it works.....but I have pictures. The bearing came out in three gentle taps, with little or no stress on the crank. It was amazing how easy that absolutely even pressure moved the bearing housing out and really funny how much work I had put into it up to this point with no success. I turned a small aluminum rod to a snug fit and it formed a great seal so all the pressure went inside....we most of it anyway. I'm sure the grease in the hole deal will work too, but this is really clean and easy.

Disclaimer, I do not recommend this to anyone. It's probably dangerous and I imagine can damage crank bearings if you drive the crank forward with a lot of force. But, for me, It was three little taps and out it came. Still laughing so hard I can't see straight.

COBRANIP · #2 (**permalink**) 03-06-2010, 11:01 PM

Will we see this on "Myth Busters"?
Thanks for sharing!

Dominik · #3 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 12:37 AM

Nice!

I did the grease method on a few occasions, and it works too - unless it's a needly bearing...

patrickt · #4 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 06:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wrogers55

It was amazing how easy that absolutely even pressure moved the bearing housing out and really funny how much work I had put into it up to this point with no success.

... and I caught a good bit o' crap last month when I told FatBoy to use the old wet toilet paper trick:

Tom Wells · #5 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 07:29 AM

This trick has history. Here's a link to the discussion:
http://www.capitalareacobraclub.com/...pic,966.0.html
and one to the photos:
http://www.capitalareacobraclub.com/v/album129/album58/

Note the first photo

Tom

mdross1 · #6 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 11:08 AM

Almost impossible to believe.I do know grease does the trick!

tkb289 · #7 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 01:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by patrickt

... and I caught a good bit o' crap last month when I told FatBoy to use the old wet toilet paper trick:

Patrick,

Noticed that you specified 'new, unused toilet paper' ... good idea, that way one does not have to ask ... is that 'grease' on your hands ??

A very clever trick and may very well put less force on the crank bearings than a slide hammer/bearing puller trying to extract a stubborn bearing. Bottom line best to use the least amount of force to get the bearing out, be that pulling or pushing.

jwd · #8 (**permalink**) 03-07-2010, 01:35 PM

The fastest, easiest way I've found is to use a tap that is one size larger than the hole in the bearing. Start the tap into the bearing and when it bottoms out in the crank, keep turning it and the bearing walks right out. A buddy had been messing with his for 2 days and couldn't get it out. Using a tap, I did it for him in minute. No mess, no fuss, no stress on the crank. Won't work on a roller bearing though.

Jim