Went to install new front brake shoes and found that my inner wheel
bearing was stuck to the spindle. Here's the short version...
Tried to pry the bearing off, which caused the bearing to fall apart
Bought the biggest pair of channel lock pliers I could find, heated
the inner race w/ a propane torch (get it as hot as possible) and was
able to wrestle it off (sounds much simpler than it was). Cleaned the
spindle w/ coarse then fine emery cloth. Let the spindle cool and test
fit the new bearing to make sure it slides on & off (put some grease
on the spindle). Everything's cool.
So, if this ever happens to you don't panic. Best way to get the old
bearing off is to try to pry it and if it breaks apart use a torch and
a big channel lock to get the race off.
If you need to cut the race, obviously avoid the threaded part of the
spindle and if you scratch the back part where the bearing sits, clean
it up w/ emery cloth. It won't kill the spindle but obviously try not
to gouge it. It helps to get the race at least a little bit away from
the backing plate.
Don't strike the spindle w/ a hammer. If you have to hammer or chisel,
work toward the backing plate. Don't apply force to the spindle.
HTH,
John Nasta
