I'm pretty sure my bigbear needs new front wheel bearings...both tires rock from side to side..the a-arms look tight so that only leaves the bearings right? anyway...is changing the wheel bearings on the bigbear hard? ..mostly are there any special tools required..im pretty sure i could do it with a clymers manual i just dont want to start and find out 1/2 way through that i need something i dont have and is a bit expensive..thanks

 

i thought mine were gone... turns out the upper a arm bushings on the frame are worn out

 

i just went out and checked..they look pretty solid. i noticed that where the axle goes into the wheel rocks up and down alot too

 

it's nothing to take the wheel off and inspect the bearing and see if there is play in it

 

These bearings usually don't last very long. I have to replace mine about every 2 years. I usually take my hub off and take it to the dealer to have the bearings replaced. I haven't ever been successfull trying to get them out myself without a bearing puller.

 

yeah i replaced some front wheel bearings on my kodiak. it is an adventure but doable with "regular" tools. You will need to kind some kind of bearing seater to help you seat (pound) the new ones in. It also helps if you put them in the freezer before starting so they go in easier. the person that you buy them from should have some helpful hints for you.
good luck

 

if you do yank everything apart drill a hole for a zerk in the hub ..grease it up good and it will last longer..also keeps water out better

 

alright..sounds like a good "when i get to it" project for me..thanks for the replys

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: STRAIGHTUPDAHILL

if you do yank everything apart drill a hole for a zerk in the hub ..grease it up good and it will last longer..also keeps water out better</end quote></div>

that'd be pointless... #1 the bearing isn't slotted for it
#2 there isn't enough space to put a fitting
#3 it's be easier to just pull it off and grease the bearing every 6 months or season.

 

WHATEVER