I have an 04 DS and would like to know from those with more time on their machines how often I should inspect/service the bearings. I have had my wheels off and was unable to remove the bearings. Do you need a special puller to do this to repack them? Any info or suggestions is appreciated on how often and how to service this crucial part. Thanks.

 

How often you sevice your bearings depends on how much time you spend in the water. Water will ruin anything fast. I check and pack the bearings about every six months, but most people say to just check them once a year if you don't do a lot of water riding. The rear is probably more important to check than the front.

Justin

 

Are the fronts sealed or can they be serviced also?

 

They are a standard sealed bearing that can be found about anywhere. If you have ever worked with a sealed bearing there is just a little rubber seal that covers the rollers. This can be removed carefully and clean and grease the bearing and then they just pop back into place. Be careful not to damage the seals. There are seals that are on the outside of the hubs on the front. It is difficult to remove these without damaging them. They have to be taken out before the bearings will come out. The seal costs as much as the bearing, so because they are sealed bearings it may be worth just waiting until you have one get loose before tearing it apart.

Justin

 

has any one put a greese zerk in the carrier to greese the berrings or pack them? would this work? just curious
Sam

 

I like that Idea. I am getting ready to take my carrier apart for repack. I am going to look at options for that when I have mine apart. the carrier is inside the swing arm housing. so, you would have to have a access hole in the swing arm. wouldnt you?

 

You would need an access hole and would rotate the carrier to grease it. The only problem that I have seen is that you will push grease out of the seals and all over the caliper and rotor and sproket. That may or may not be a problem.

Justin

 

oh yea, your right. it probably have to be a sloted hole for chain adjustment.