Rear axle bearing installation

[Flivver250]

I do a lot of tinkering on multiple Jeeps with a group of hobbyists. I do not have easy access to a hydraulic press for bearing installation. I am wondering if anyone has ever placed the axle in ice while heating the bearing in hot oil and had the bearing installed that way? Is there an alternative method or tool? I have seen heavy pipes used as a slide hammer, but that seems to be a harsh method. If I were home I would buy a hydraulic shop press, but the purchase here would not be a good investment (may not be here much longer).

Thanks. Art

 

[AMS417]

I do a lot of tinkering on multiple Jeeps with a group of hobbyists. I do not have easy access to a hydraulic press for bearing installation. I am wondering if anyone has ever placed the axle in ice while heating the bearing in hot oil and had the bearing installed that way? Is there an alternative method or tool? I have seen heavy pipes used as a slide hammer, but that seems to be a harsh method. If I were home I would buy a hydraulic shop press, but the purchase here would not be a good investment (may not be here much longer).

Thanks. Art

I would find a shop that can press them for you, shouldn't cost much if that's all you have them do. I have heated and cooled stuff before with decent results, mostly crank bearings on small engines never a axles bearing. I can also tell you it took a lot of force to get the bearings and collars onto my rear axles using a 20T press.

 

[Flivver250]

I have done that as well on a two stroke engine. I do know of a press for hire. I just wanted a DIY option that may not be worth the effort.

 

[AMS417]

I have done that as well on a two stroke engine. I do know of a press for hire. I just wanted a DIY option that may not be worth the effort.

I watched a YouTube vid a while back (I think it was Bleepin’ Jeep) they tried the alternative methods and gave up after a while. Is it worth a shot? Maybe, but these bearing are a very tight fit. I’d be afraid I’d damage one.