Which bearing install set for a one-time job?

[netbrad]

Hey folks,

I am going to try and replace the rear wheel bearings and seals on my Cherokee this weekend. I looked in the pass/fail thread but didn't see either of these listed. Which tool set would be better for this purpose in a "won't break on the first use but won't break the bank" situation:

First up is Harbor Freight:

http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-bearing-race-and-seal-driver-set-95853.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/bushingbearing-set-68971.html

Next is Northern Tool which looks a little beefier:

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200353977_200353977

I don't think you can rent those tools from Autozone/Advance but I am going to rent a puller. What say you?

 

[Mr. Brooks]

Yessir you can rent them at autozone for sure, just call before you head up there. Save the money and rent them.

 

[Steven67fr]

Yeah, if you're really planning to just one time it I know our local o'really loans the tools for free with just a deposit down on them (and they don't ask questions if you keep them and don't bring them back, either).
Good luck!

 

[firebox40dash5]

Yeah, if you're really planning to just one time it I know our local o'really loans the tools for free with just a deposit down on them (and they don't ask questions if you keep them and don't bring them back, either).
Good luck!

Well of course not, you just bought a used tool for regular price. I wouldn't argue with ya either.

I use that HF aluminum seal installer set all the time with a press, worked fine so far. Between big 1/2" impact sockets and that I have yet to find an application that I can't make work.

 

[SMKS]

I would guess you can rent something like you need at one of the autoparts stores.

Autozone lists this bearing race driver in the loan-a-tool section of their website:
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/accessories/Tools-Garage-and-Equipment/Bearing-and-Race/_/N-264s

 

[AndrewH]

I have the HF seal and race driver kit that you posted, with a 25% off coupon it's a good deal. I've only used it a handful of times but I'm very happy with it. One time use tools usually end up being used more than that, I'd pick it up, in my opinion it's a great little kit for a good price!

 

[volaredon]

too bad youre not closer I have all the tools needed for that job. and as far as HF goes most of what they have isn't worth the cost of the paper the receipt is written on

 

[Steven67fr]

Well of course not, you just bought a used tool for regular price. I wouldn't argue with ya either.

Usually our local store's deposit is much less than the tool is worth... I've never kept one... or borrower from them... Just know friends that have.

 

[netbrad]

Ok thanks guys. I'll run to Autozone since that is closest, however I will also go to Harbor Freight to get the pry-bars (black handle), some more nitrile gloves and a dead blow hammer. Yay coupons!

 

[Steven67fr]

Ok thanks guys. I'll run to Autozone since that is closest, however I will also go to Harbor Freight to get the pry-bars (black handle), some more nitrile gloves and a dead blow hammer. Yay coupons!

 

[jhelrey]

Can use sockets...

 

[Murphy4570]

That aluminum driver set from HF is a great deal. I have it, and it kicks ***. I have beat the ever living **** out of it, and it just deforms the aluminum. Grind it flush again and it is good to go.

Keep in mind that that driver set is only useful for installing the new outer axle bearings and seals. To remove them you need a slide hammer and this axle bearing removal set:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000MN4KQ0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

The above is OTC, which is a high quality brand. You can find the same thing in OEM or some other cheap knockoff brand for much less.


These are tools that even a pro mechanic rarely uses, so I would think hard about buying vs renting the tools if your just a shade tree mechanic working on your own stuff. The upside is that these tools work AWESOME, and I do not regret owning them for the rare times I need them.

 

[shiftdrift]

Ok thanks guys. I'll run to Autozone since that is closest, however I will also go to Harbor Freight to get the pry-bars (black handle), some more nitrile gloves and a dead blow hammer. Yay coupons!

netbrad, i messaged you regarding the screwdrivers you're selling, I had to send the message on my phone using tapatalk because it wouldn't go through on the main site for some reason? when you pm back, be sure to check and make sure it sends, as mine didn't several times.