>Looks like I will be replacing at least one rear wheel bearing in the >near future. Assuming I can come up with the correct tool to remove the >retainer, is it required to replace them after removal?
>Any advise? Offer of tools? There are two styles of retainers - Alfetta style and Milano style. There are different tools. The Alfetta style is much better, in my opinion, as the tool gets a better grip on the retainer. You can also drive it in and out (in theory) with a screwdriver. The retainers are opposite threaded on the drivers side. You can use an Alfetta retainer in a Milano, and vice versa. I would strongly recommend having a replacement retainer on hand, and if you have a choice, make it the Alfetta style. The old ones can be frighteningly difficult to remove. If they don't pop right out, I cut them with a grinder and pull out the remains. Use anti seize on the new retainer. The rear bearings on these cars have strange symptoms. It's usually the unloaded bearing that makes the groaning noise.. HTH, bs -- to be removed from alfa, see http://www.digest.net/bin/digest-subs.cgi or email "unsubscribe alfa" to [email protected]
