knuckle bearing race support SST

[Moby]

Has anyone used this SST when replacing the knuckle bearing races? Not the SST for determining the proper amount of shims (I've got that on order) but the SST with a large nut in the center that supports the races during installation and appears to also be used to press them out. Just looking for feedback if you've used it or don't bother it's not critical.

 

[landcruiserdude]

Yes, I have the tool. It's worth it too me, as I now no longer have to worry about damaging new bearings if the preload shims have to be adjusted. Plus, no banging on the knuckle arms any more. Worth the $100 in my opinion, and it's probably done the knuckles on 10 different cruisers.

 

[Tinker]

What's the SST #?

 

[sundaypunch]

I just did a knuckle rebuild. I had no problem getting the races out with the BFH / brass drift method. Also no problem putting the new ones in tapping slowly on the side of a hexagonal brass drift. I did have the races in the freezer overnight and installed them cold which helps a bit.

I view the tool as probably nice to have but a non-necessity. I might spring for it if I was going to be doing this all the time. Not worth it to me for once a year or less.

 

[PAFJ]

Not worth it to me for once a year or less.

Your rebuilding your knuckles once a year, seems excessive.

 

[2mbb]

I purchased the tool when I went into my front axles for a rebuild. The tool doesn't help with the races--those are removed with a punch and installed with a bearing installation tool (or old race) and a hammer. The SST (09606-60020) is used to remove and replace the knuckle arm/bearing caps. The tool was helpful, but I'm not sure it's really a necessity. I guess it depends on how easily you think it will all come apart and go together. If your're going to replace the knuckle bearings and races anyway, you probably don't need to tool for disassembly because it doesn't matter if you stress the bearings trying to get things apart. On reassebly, I think the tool helps keep the bearings from scoring the races. But if you're careful, you might be OK...