Left side main shaft needle bearing removal/install

[JZ05220r]

Hey guys, there is a needle bearing in the left crankcase that the mainshaft rides on. Looks like to remove it I could use a blind bearing puller. But to install in what is the best way? Thanks

[Molly's 70]

I'd probably put the bearing in the freezer. Find a socket that will fit the OD of the bearing & gently tap it in. I might even heat up the case half a little.

[SS109]

Yep, I've done the freeze method and it went in fairly easy.

[JZ05220r]

Ok thank you guys, I was thinking that I’d need a special driver as to not harm the shell and lock the needle bearings or even worse, cause them to fall out.

[Chuck78]

That's a huge benefit of having your own metal lathe, or at least having one at your disposal to use... You can make custom sized bearing drivers every time you have one that you don't have a perfectly sized socket to fit!

[JZ05220r]

That's a huge benefit of having your own metal lathe, ir at least having one at your disposal to use... You can make custom sized bearing drivers every time you have one that you don't have a perfectly sized socket!

For sure, just not viable enough for me, and their are so few needle bearings in the engine that would require such a tool versus a ball bearing.

[kdxdazz]

There is very little to be had in freezing bearings, heating always expands more than freezing contracts, I used a plastic welder in mine so I can localise the heat, 100 Celsius and the bearing should fall in but have a hammer and suitable drift ready and work quickly
Mine was a real pain to remove as it has factory steel sleeves for the bearings, had to use a welder and slide hammer