installing rear wheel bearings

[Roadog]

 I will be installing new rear wheel bearings as soon as they arrive.  Is there a preference as to which side should be installed first.  The larger drive side first or the smaller left side first , or does it matter.   Thanks.

Terry

[Highbinder]

I generally remove the larger bearing first, just seems to come out easier, if you're not using a bearing puller be careful not to damage the bearing seat on the wheel...there is very little space to get behind the bearing to drive it out...plus the spacer tries its best to get in the way...

[Roadog]

  Sorry...should have mentioned this bike is '98 Valkyrie Tourer , That might help.

[Patrick]

It doesn't really make any difference. I usually remove the small one first. Whatever you feel like doing.
When installing [ I either drive or press any bearing in, doesn't make any difference] just make sure to push or drive on the outside diameter [for these bearings] and don't forget the center sleeve/spacer.

[fantsybikr]

Have you considered doing the bearing mod? replacing the smaller bearing with the bigger sized one? as to which bearing to take out first, which ever one wants to come out the easiest, but i would try the larger one first. My thought is less likely to possibly "twist" the bearing in the housing while driving it out. Home made bearing press is real handy putting new bearings back in.

[cokebottle10]

After I removed the old bearings I put the new bearings still in the bag in the freezer overnight. Then left the rear end out in the sun to warm up. I used the old bearings and a large socket to tap the new ones in. I think that if you use dry ice they would almost drop in. Just don't roll them until they warm up.

Thanks, David in Fletcher NC.

[Roadog]

some good advise thanks .