How to Safely Remove Bearing Seals and Shields Without Bearing Damage
Bearing seals and shields play a crucial role in protecting your bearings from dust and other contaminants. Sealed bearings are particularly essential in environments where contaminants are prevalent, as they provide an extremely tight seal that prevents contaminants from damaging or entering the bearing. Shields on the other hand, are used in environments where contaminants are present but moisture isn’t a concern. How to safely remove a bearing seal To remove a bearing seal, it is important to have correct tools on hand. A bearing seal removal tool that is thin enough to slide under the seal’s edge is essential. Begin by tracing the tool around the inside of the bearing until you locate the outer race. Then, gently slip the tool underneath the seal’s edge and pry it loose, taking care not to deform or break the seal or damage the bearing. This method allows you to access the cage and rolling elements inside the bearing and replace the undamaged seal afterward without compromisi...