wheel bearings

[sep42]

I hope this is the right forum for this question.<p>They say the bearings have to be pressed in (and pressed out).
How much force is there really needed. Is it possible to get them out with a nice mallet and some inventive wood blocks?
How about getting them back in? Does a regular vice on the bench have enough force?
I've never seen it done actually. <p>Any other important things to know?<p>Thanks

[monstar-mx-3]

you need a press to get them out. Trust me...I tired with a mallet i ended up taking it to the mazda dealership to get it fixed. Cost about $350 Canadian. Really costly job. Plus you will have to get your wheel aliment done again.

[ProtegeSTS]

yeah, you NEED a press. No way around it. And you NEED a press for BOTH getting them in, and taking them out.

[sep42]

Thanks for the replies. I found a shop to do it for CAD $30 (each).<p>Now for the wheel alignment comment, is the alignment necessarry after new bearings are installed? I've never heard of that before, and the align. was just done less than 2weeks ago.<p>Thanks

[monstar-mx-3]

its recommended by the dealer. Beacause you have to take the whole arm off, it throw the aliment off. $30!! CAN that cheap!.