disco monkey pivot bearing removal

[K2Kiwi]

I've read that you should expect to have to replace the needle bearings in the main pivot if you remove them, as they can be dmage on removal. Is this always the case or can they be removed without damage if removed carefully, and used again if they're in good condition? [smiley=nod.gif] [smiley=disbelief.gif]

[Joe]

If your careful you shouldnt have any problems. I reused mine. When taking out the bearings and main pivot, press them out (easier said than done!). Pull out your socket set and fit up one thatll fit the pivot then roller bearings, and a deep one to fit over the opposite side allowing the stuffs to push through. And then... grab the bench vise and fit it up to the sockets and slowly press out the goods. A couple light taps on a extension should finish the job. The install is reversed with plenty of lube as well.

[Matno]

Are you just making sure before you plunge in or is this a confession?  

[K2Kiwi]

Just suffering from a little paranoia. Really don't want to have to buy new bearings when i'm pretty sure I won't need them. Currently suffering from mystery bottom bracket region creak, that sounds like may be eminating from the pivot based on what I've read on the subject in the forum. I'm sure my bearings will be in good condition, just want to remove, inspect, and regrease them.  [smiley=beer.gif]

[epac]

you should be able to tell if the bearings are bad without removing them. if they are still good just regrease them and put the swing arm back on. if they are bad put the swing arm back on and go order them. this way you wont be without your ride for the 2 weeks its gonna take to get a main pivot kit.



                        .............peace [smiley=nod.gif]

[K2Kiwi]

Ok. Job done. All greased up and ready to rock and roll. Bearings looked and felt ok, but how can you tell easily if they are stuffed, if you only inspect them while they're still on the bike. Is it really obvious when they need replacing.

[epac]

yes it generally is very obvious. they will either fall apart when you remove the axle shaft or they wont be moveable with your finger.

                 

                               ...........peace [smiley=nod.gif]

[K2Kiwi]

Fair enough... pretty obvious. Thanks for all the useful comments.  

[K2Kiwi]

Just thought I'd add the closing chapter for the benefit of others who end up trying to fix what sounds like bottom bracket, or pivot clicking when the pedals are turned under load. First ride on greased pivot still had the same clicking  [smiley=coolfrown.gif]. Finally tracked the clicking down. It was actually coming from the top plate of my SPD's. The cross head screws that secure the plates had become very slightly loose. This was enough to create the clicking sound. Clicking certainly wasn't immediately apparent to be coming from the pedals. Glad now to be click free once again. Clicks, clunks, and squeeks suck big time. (Pedals are Richie logic. 97' vintage)  

[RoentgenRanger]

The pivots seem to be pretty well sealed...I ride in the Pacific NW year round and haven't had to touch them in a year and a half...