tgibben

Okay, so while new to this site, I'm definitely not new to mechanics.

I've got a 2002 bug eye Wrx wagon that has FUBAR front wheel bearings.. (Last owner wasn't exactly keen on maintenance it seems).

Have a bearing removal kit (the kind with the threaded rod and various adapters) have used kits like this in the past with great results.

Bearings are so bad the rotor could touch the rotor shield. Hubs appear to be okay, but are being replaced as a precaution.

The outer bearing race WILL NOT come out of the steering knuckle. Tried using the die grinder with a cut off wheel.. Got a piece out but am unable to get far enough in to cut all the way through. Stripped the threaded rod in the press kit trying to push the bearing race out. (Snap ring was removed, and using correct sized dies). Have tried heating it, penetrating oil, and just plain beating it with a hammer.

The %$&#@% thing will not budge.

Replacing the steering knuckle is not really viable at this point as I would have to ship from mainland.. And that in itself could run a couple hundred since I will likely need two.

Any ideas, suggestions, or tips? I've never had a bearing put up this much of a fight.

Godspeed Brakes

iTrader: (259)

Run a weld in the inside of the bearing , it will contract when cool and will come out then

JonMc

iTrader: (51)

Proper hydraulic press did mine

tgibben

The welding trick will be easier than finding a shop with a press that doesn't want a small fortune to punch out the old bearings. Fingers crossed on a set of used knuckles with good bearings..