I have a 2005 sportsman 400 4x4 and Im trying to replace the wheel bearings and ball joints.I got the old ones out but cant get the new ones in.The only way the old ones would come out is by heating the strut up a litte bit. Does anyone know a easy way of pressing the new ones in?

 

You can use a Socket the same size as the bearing race to tap in ......This will provide even force when fitting.......

Warning====== .......Do not use a socket that sits on the actual roller part as this will damage the bearing...........outer race or inner race part only.......Depend on if on a shaft or in a hub..............Caper.........

 

Put the bearing in the freezer for a while and then use the race from the old one's to gently tap them in. For about $100 you can get a a 12 ton press that works great for removal/assembly. Mine has paid it's weight in gold on numerous occasions.

 

Forgot to mention you can do the same with the ball joints and be sure to take the zerk fitting out of the strut before putting the new ones in.

 

Put you new items in the freezer then heat up the strut a bit.
The new parts will just fall into place,i did this with my 02 700 and it worked great.
A little wd 40 helps to.You will crap your self when you see how it easy this works.

 

If you plan on keeping a Polaris I would recommend their ball joint tool.Works great with no heat or freezing.

 

What is a zerk fitting and how long do I put the bearing and ball joint in the freezer ?

 

About the same time it takes to freeze your beer,and the zerk is grease fitting, most new ball joints are not grease able so dont try as youll just push the joint back out.
Now get her done ...by the time your beer defrosted youll have the ball joints in.then enjoy your beer for a job well done.