head stock bearing replacement

[chippit]

Hi, I have found the handling problem with my SRX600 is down to knackered stearing head bearings. (it just wants to go in a straight line)
Is it a good idea to replace with taper roller bearings and if so what make? Or is it best to get genuine yamaha ones?
Many thanks Christine

[themoudie]

Aye Christine,

'Sally' already had a set of taper rollers in, when acquired and apart from cleaning and greasing have not required attention over 45K kilometers. 'Gert' was an early '85 1JK with ball bearings and I replaced those with a set from Wemoto as they were 'notchy'! I cannot remember whether I used the USA or Japan produced bearings, but the process was relatively straight forward. Getting the correct resistance to turn using a spring balance may appear 'anorak' territory, but ensures the longevity of the bearings.

Link: Taper bearing kit

Hope all goes well and you can enjoy a return to good handling afore the winter sets in.

By the way I use ACF50 grease when installing the bearings, good, waterproof and load resisting properties.

My regards, Bill.

[Ian]

Just something to be aware of if fitting taper roller bearings to twinshock models is that if the bearings do give problems, it is nigh on impossible to remove the race from each bearing  that fits into the headstock.
Just a thought and Im not trying to put you off.
(The later monoshocks have taper rollers fitted as standard and do have "cut outs" in the headstock to allow removal if knackered)

Ian

[Steve H]

Just something to be aware of if fitting taper roller bearings to twinshock models is that if the bearings do give problems, it is nigh on impossible to remove the race from each bearing  that fits into the headstock.

I run a bead of weld around the bearing surface which helps to shrink it , then weld a bit of steel across the centre and knock it out from the top. Granted you need to have access to a MIG welder and be able to weld upside down, but it works.

[chippit]

Thankyou once again,
I have bought a set of  'All balls' taper roller bearings from Wemoto, they arrived the next day.
I have managed to knock the old ball race bearings out just need some time to put it all back together. I have not been happy with the handling for a while looking forward to getting it right just in time for winter!
Regards Christine