Setup: I've got new bearings and races in the 12-bolt. Presently trying different pinion shims to get proper gear pattern. The ring gear-side pinion bearing is, of course, pressed on. The pinion bearing near the yoke is not, but it is very tight. Not using a crush sleeve yet (but do set pinion preload and backlash properly before checking pattern).

Question: When removing the pinion, what is the best way to get the yoke-side bearing off? Its tight enough that I cannot pull the pinion out. Tempted to tap the pinion out using a hammer (using an old nut on the pinion) and then the yoke-side bearing automatically comes off. But will it hurt the bearing (or anything else)?

Possible Answers:

1. smile.gif Bearings are tough - pound away on 'er.
2. graemlins/thumbsup.gif Tap lightly and you probably will be ok.
3. :eek: You hit it, you ruin it! Put the whole rearend in a press and slowly push the pinion gear out.

Thanks!

Hit it with a hammer. Don't worry about putting a nut on it, just be sure you hit it square on the end so you don't roll any threads over. You won't dammage the bearing if you don't have to hit it too hard. You could use some embry cloth to slightly reduce the diameter of the pinion so the bearing will slide a little easier.

Thanks for the answer!