Steering Head Bearings
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Joined: Apr 2011
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From: England
Steering Head Bearings
These are the triple trees of my 2002 deuce, i'm replacing them with raked triple trees. My Question is can this lower bearing be removed and reused onto the stem of my new triple trees? Was the bearing pressed on originally and if i to buy a new bearing does it need a special tool to press it on?
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From: Republic of Texas
I have reused the bearings many times in the past with no issues what so ever as long as it is being reused in the same race. It should slide off but sometimes may need a little persuasion. I have used a press to press the stem out through the lower tree and the bearing will be left sitting on top of the tree.
IMO, replace the bearings while you've got it all torn down. You can get a good set for $30-40. Inspect the races and replace them too if needed. Most aftermarket trees don't require the bearings to be pressed on, just a slip fit, but I do believe they are pressed on the stock trees.
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From: Rowlett, Texas
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I have reused the bearings many times in the past with no issues what so ever as long as it is being reused in the same race. It should slide off but sometimes may need a little persuasion. I have used a press to press the stem out through the lower tree and the bearing will be left sitting on top of the tree.
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I'm confused, why wouldn't you replace them? Would you change cams and use the same bearings? Do you reuse your oil if it looks pretty good? Bearings are cheap, relatively. Who wants to tear down their front end again if they can avoid it? It's like o rings and gaskets, why do things twice. Just replace them. JMHO.
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Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 301
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From: NORTH CAROLINA
i'm confused, why wouldn't you replace them? Would you change cams and use the same bearings? Do you reuse your oil if it looks pretty good? Bearings are cheap, relatively. Who wants to tear down their front end again if they can avoid it? It's like o rings and gaskets, why do things twice. Just replace them. Jmho.
I couldn't agree more. If you have it down to put new raked triple trees on why would you not replace the bearings and the races. The races generally take as much of a beating, if not more, as the bearings. Imo... both will have more pressure on them due to the rake. I would go all new. Cheaper now !!