Can’t remove driveshaft center support bearing flange

[620crumudgeon]

I’m replacing the driveshaft center support bearing on my 620 and can’t remove the flange at the end of the front driveshaft. The nut holding the flange to the driveshaft was loose - I removed it with my fingers. I figured a few hammer taps would knock the shaft from the flange. After banging on it with a 4# hammer the top of the splines are an 1/8” below the top of the hole in the flange. I’m glad the new bearing has a new nut to replace the now deformed original nut. I though about having the shaft pressed out but I realized I would have to press the flange on the the driveshaft.

 

Should I press the flange off and on the front driveshaft or find a used front driveshaft?

 

John

 

 

[datzenmike]

The center support bearing rarely needs replacing though some have done this. Only one confirmed case of a failed bearing by Metalmonkey that I know of. The bearing merely supports the rubber isolater ring around it and carries very little load. Don't be surprised if changing this has no effect. Usually the rubber rots away and the driveshaft is free to flop around and vibrate. If it's noise or vibration it's almost always one or more of the 3  U joints.

 

The driveshaft is balanced as an assembly so be sure to mark everything so it goes back in the same orientation.

[distributorguy]

I used a press to change mine out.  Be careful.  The depth of installation is critical, and can result in the bearing locking up if you get it wrong.