how hard is it to replace the rear axle bearings in a 185? my uncle has a 185 that runs, but has been taken out of service because the origional bearings, chain and sprokets are ... well origional. this 3wheeler has had a very hard life and has had very little maintence, but it still runs too good to let it sit. last year i had the back end of the 3wheeler torn apart to weld the rear axle carrier back on. yes, it was busted off. i was in a hurry to get the job done before the weekend and at a minimal cost so i didnt bother to replace anything. the bearings dont have any ***** left in them, all the teeth on the sproket are folded over and the chain is the worst thing i have eaver seen. the only sprocket that i have eaver seen in worse condition was the front sprocket of a 1971 ct70 where it was soo worn that the teeth were gone and all that was left was a round with ripples on it. well, back to the question. how do the bearings come out? will i have to do some serious cutting and pounding or should they slide right out? i would hate to see another 3wheeler get junked.

 

The way it sounds, they may be stubborn to get out because of how worn they are. You may end up having to put some heat on the housing with a torch and drive them out. They really aren't that big a deal though.

One thing regarding the sprocket. If it is indeed original or of original type, be sure the rubber dampers between the sprocket plates aren't worn out. If they are, buy a "bolt-on" rear sprocket for it. They are available from nearly any Honda dealer. You amy want to go this route anyway to avoid a problem with the dampers in the future.

 

I'm confused. You mention a bolt-on rear sprocket to replace the rubber damper type. Is this really available? I have both types on my '82 185 (rubber) and my '83 185S (solid) and the axle hub for the spocket is different size and hole pattern. Is there really a hybrid sprocket that eliminates the damper type but fits the the same hole spacing on the hub? Also, does the hub press off? I had it tried and all it wouldn't budge. It stayed in place and mushroomed the wheel hub threads. Thanks, Bob. bobpotts@nctimes.net

 

Bob,

I know it sounds wierd, because I get that reaction every time I mention a "bolt-on" sprocket....and not be talking about the 1983-up models......LOL

There are a few different suppliers that carry it. Dennis Kirk carries the Sunstar brand for the 1981-1982 185S models in either the bolt-on type or stok damper type.

There is a supplier based out of Memphis that the dealers order through that carry it for the 1980 185 and 1981-1982 200 models. You have to check with your local dealer if he is setup to order these sprockets. If not, make a few calls because they are available.

These "bolt-on" sprockets do not use dampers at all.....not even similar to the '83 185S....it bolts directly to the sprocket hub.

 

Knowsalot:

Thanks, I will check it out.

Bob