Changing mower wheel bearings

Maintaining a lawnmower is crucial to ensuring its performance and extending its service life. An often underestimated aspect of this maintenance is the care given to the wheel bearings, which are essential for smooth and efficient operation of the mower.

Needle roller bearings, a specific type of bearing, enable your mower's wheels to turn with little friction, guaranteeing better maneuverability and minimal wear on moving parts. When in good condition, these bushes contribute to the mower's ease of use, allowing fluid movement and reducing the effort required to push or steer the machine.

However, over time, needle bushings can wear or deteriorate, especially in the presence of debris, dust or moisture. Damaged needle roller bearings can increase the risk of breakdowns, requiring potentially costly repairs.

This tutorial is designed to help you look after your machine.

Identifying signs of bearing replacement

Optimum operation of your lawnmower depends largely on the condition of its bearings. So it's crucial to know how to recognize the signs of wear that indicate the need to replace them. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:

• Noise and vibration: Listen carefully for squeaking, rattling or rumbling noises coming from the wheels. Increased vibration during use may also indicate deterioration of the bearings.

• Wheel movement: Check that the wheels turn freely without excessive resistance or noise. A wheel that hangs or is difficult to turn is often a symptom of worn bearings.

• Visual inspection: Examine bearings for signs of excessive dirt, rust or other debris that could affect their operation. Any visible damage may require immediate replacement to avoid more complex repairs.

Raising the machine with a wedge

Start by raising the mower using a wedge to ensure practicality and safety during servicing. This allows easier access to the wheel and components, facilitating the following steps.

Dismantling the rear wheel

Remove the wheel by loosening the nut and washer. This step is essential to gain access to the bushes and other internal components of the wheel.

Removing the needle bushing

If you come across a bushing that doesn't come off easily, apply a degreaser to facilitate its removal. This trick can simplify extraction without damaging the part or the wheel.

WD40 is used here.

Once the bearing has been de-seized, remove the needle bushing.

Cleaning the axle

Use sanding paper to clean the axle and remove any accumulated rust or dirt. A clean axle ensures better installation and functionality of the new bushing.

Remove the second bushing from the wheel

Remove the second bushing from the wheel, using degreaser if necessary.

We recommend the use of an extractor, but a mallet and a second levering tool will enable you to remove the bushing.

Installing the new bushing and greasing

Install the new bushing and apply a generous amount of grease. Make sure you spread the grease evenly over the bushing, without hesitating on the quantity inside to ensure optimal lubrication.

SKF grease is perfect for this type of part.

Grease the axle evenly along its entire length.

Reassembling the wheel

Once the new bearing is in place and properly greased, put the bushing back into the wheel, followed by the axle, the washer and finally the nut. This concludes the bushing replacement process.

Front wheel specifics

There's usually a difference between front and rear mower wheels.

A wheel bearing is located on the front part and serves to reduce friction, improve maneuverability and mowing efficiency.

The steps for maintaining front or rear wheels are similar, but we recommend using super degreaser on front wheel bearings.

By taking the time to check the condition of your mower's bearings on a regular basis, you'll not only ensure consistent performance, but also a longer service life for your equipment. Replacing bearings at the first sign of wear is a preventive maintenance practice that can save you high repair costs and unexpected inconvenience. Keep your mower in top working order and ready to face the challenges of mowing, season after season.