How to Replace the Bearings of a Bike’s Rear Wheel Hub Assembly

ID: 220123

Description: This guide explains how to repair the bearings...

Steps:

  1. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the axle nut from one side of the wheel hub.
  2. Remove the flat washer located behind the axle nut.
  3. Set the axle nut and flat washer aside in a safe place. You will need them during reassembly.
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  4. Place the cone wrench onto the cone located on the axle.
  5. Hold the cone wrench firmly in place so the cone does not rotate.
  6. With the help of an additional person, position an adjustable wrench on each side of the axle nuts.
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  7. Hold the first adjustable wrench on the opposite side of the wheel firmly in place.
  8. Use the cone wrench to loosen the cone.
  9. While holding the cone wrench, turn the second adjustable wrench upward to loosen the axle nut.
  10. Remove the axle nut from the axle and set it aside.
  11. Remove the cone from the axle and set it aside.
  12. Slide the axle out of the hub and set it aside.
  13. The ball bearings will now be exposed.
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  14. Use the needle nose pliers to remove each ball bearing individually from the hub.
  15. Set the bearings aside in a safe place for reinstallation.
  16. The number of bearings may vary depending on the bicycle wheel.
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  17. Use shop towels or rags to remove the old grease from the bearing housing.
  18. Continue cleaning until the bearing housing is free of excess grease and debris.
  19. If needed, use degreaser or cleaning solvent to help remove stubborn grease buildup.
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  20. Apply a generous layer of bicycle grease to the bearing housing.
  21. Spread the bicycle grease evenly around the inside of the housing.
  22. If needed, use nitrile gloves to assist in the application of bicycle grease.
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  23. Lay the wheel flat on your work surface.
  24. Reinstall each bearing into its original position using your fingers or the needle nose pliers.
  25. Apply an additional layer of bicycle grease over the bearings once they are all in place.
  26. Insert the axle back through the center of the hub.
  27. If a bearing falls into the housing, use the needle nose pliers to carefully remove and reposition it.
  28. Take a photo of the bearing arrangement before removal if you need a reference during reassembly.
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  29. Hold the opposite end of the axle to prevent it from rotating throughout this step.
  30. Place the cone back onto the axle.
  31. Reinstall the flat washer onto the axle.
  32. Reinstall the axle nut onto the axle.
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  33. Position the cone wrench and adjustable wrenches in place over the cone and axle nuts on both sides of the wheel.
  34. Use the cone wrench and adjustable wrenches to tighten the cone.
  35. Tighten the axle nut of the working side until it is secure.
  36. Check that all components are firmly tightened.
  37. Spin the wheel to confirm that it rotates smoothly and without resistance.
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