M7 brake-side bearings replacemnt?

[furthur]

Ok, based on an earlier thread, I'm gonna swap out the brake side driveshaft bearings (#37) as preventative maint. I have the driveshaft out and the brake hub/caliper assembly hanging by the brake hose. It looks like, according to the parts diag., that I need to split that caliper (#26&36), to separate the hub from the caliper (brake fluid flows across the caliper halves to the outside piston?). Either that, or I need to disconnect the brake hose and try to drive the bearings out of the hub with the caliper still attached. Actually, this looks like the best way, anyway, since I have to disconnect the brake hose to get the assembly away from the machine, and if I split that housing, it will likely get dirt into the brake system...so support the pistons so they don't fall out, take the whole thing to the bench, and drive out the bearings? Also, looks like I pull the snap-ring (#39) and drive the bearings out towards the brake disk?

Who's been through this, and what's the easy way?

 

[Killerk]

I unbolted the halves on mine and just put a rag under it.
When I put it together I didn't even have to crack the bleeder.
I just refilled and pumped the lever.
It is easy to work on once its out of the sled.
Just pull the clip and press or pound out the bearings.
Pack the void inbetween the bearings on re-assembly and it will keep the moisture out.

 

[furthur]

I unbolted the halves on mine and just put a rag under it.
When I put it together I didn't even have to crack the bleeder.
I just refilled and pumped the lever.
It is easy to work on once its out of the sled.
Just pull the clip and press or pound out the bearings.
Pack the void inbetween the bearings on re-assembly and it will keep the moisture out.

Did you disconnect the brake hose, too? Also...that grease is close to the brake...and those are sealed bearings...just a little bit leary of that. Have you got some miles on that to test it?

John

 

[furthur]

Just for the record, that parts diagram I posted above LIES! The spring clip is between the two bearings, so you have to drive out the outside one first, by reaching in from the track-side with your drift/punch. Once that's out, get that big clip out, and the inner (trackside) bearing comes out going the same direction (towards the brake disk).

FWIW, even though my bearings look and feel fine, there was water shaken out of them when I drove them out, and my sled is stored inside for a long time between rides. They must be pretty good bearings.

John