Replacing rear thrust bearing

[MarkVon]

I spoke with Don and he sent me a replacement rear thrust bearing which I’m trying to install.

How do I remove the old bearing from the rear thrust bearing flange and install the new one?

Here’s a pic showing the new bearing on the left (which looks different then the old one, which has a rubber seal).

I don’t want to wreck the flange so any tips appreciated. Thx!

[Peter]

Mark,

Did this job last year - found this video very useful - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fslgwjnuQc

Peter

[MarkVon]

Thanks Peter. I've watched that video and have been using it for doing most of this job.

However, it doesn't show how to change the actual thrust bearing. He says it's a robust part of the A4 and doesn't change it.

Does anyone know the correct procedure for removing the actual thrust bearing and putting the new one in?

[W2ET]

There are some similar threads list at the bottom of the page which may be of some assistance.

HTH.

Bill

[MarkVon]

Thx Bill. I've read those, but none of them share how to actually remove the thrust bearing from the flange.

My gut instinct says I should bang it out (like I did with the oil seal) and then press the new one in, but I'm worried about wrecking something and want to hear from someone with experience before doing it.

[Peter]

Mark,

Busy day today. I recall now that I used a "bearing puller"

https://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/tri-jaw-bearing-puller/A-p8105256e

I think Princess Auto is the Canadian version of Harbour Freight?

I gave the tool to my next-door-neighbour who has an amazing tool collection and lets me borrow some of them sometimes. He did not have one of these.

HTH,

Peter

PS - https://www.harborfreight.com/3-jaw-...ller-4876.html

[MarkVon]

Thx everyone for the support. My friend helped me hammer it out and put the new one in. He used a round pipe that fit over the old bearing.

He also built a tool for me to the drive shaft coupling (that was in a difficult place to access) and tighten up the end nut. Project is now complete!

This forum and Ken’s great service is amazing. ❤️