Help! Installing Front Balance Shaft Bearings...

[dsm_illicious]

I'm working on removing the balance shafts. I've already knocked out both of the front balance shaft bearings but now I need to install the new bearings. I'm working with the engine in the car so space is limited. I have no special tool to install the inner front bearing. I tried reversing the front balance shaft to use the larger end to hold the new bearing in place but I can't get it into the inner slot. I've been messing with it for a while and it's pretty tough...any suggestions? I was thinking of just leaving out the inner front balance shaft bearing...is that a bad idea? I know I'll lose some oil pressure but how much?

 

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i have a 32mm and a 1 1/4 in sockets...one of the bearings fits inside and one doesnt...are the bearings suppose to be 2 different sizes....is there any way to just turn the bearings in the block to block the holes... rather than removing them to put the new ones in..

 

[Mist3r Spool]

i have a 32mm and a 1 1/4 in sockets...one of the bearings fits inside and one doesnt...are the bearings suppose to be 2 different sizes....is there any way to just turn the bearings in the block to block the holes... rather than removing them to put the new ones in..

I was pondering that too (turning them). It's near-impossible, they aren't supposed to move at all. If they were to spin, even with force, I'd be worried to have them in my block with the possibility of coming loose and tangling themselves in with the crank! You're going to have to punch them out. The outer bearing is larger in diameter than the inner bearing. It took me a bit to get them out. I used, as stated, a 1 & 1/4" socket and a 1/2" drive, 12" extension. You may need a different 1 & 1/4 socket or 32mm socket, one that has a more tapered design. Don't give up! You have the new bearings so just bring 'em to a auto store and get a tool that fits them both. It is possible. Don't try to spin the bearings, it may damage your block. Remember, if you wanted, you can always leave the front b-shaft in place (so it can block the oiling holes on it's own. I wouldn't recommend that though, you won't get the complete benefit (oil pressure increase) of having the b-shaft removed, but it is an option.

 

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ok, thanks..i ll give that a try while i wait on getting the new gaskets i need for the oil filter housing, and the oil pump cover .....thanks for the help....