I have a Sheldon WM56P lathe and have to remove the spindle for maintenance. It has 2 Timken tapered bearings and when the spindle is pressed out the rear bearing will be pressed off by the process of removing the spindle. However, this leaves the front bearing still pressed onto the front of the spindle. I of course need to remove the bearing for cleaning and do not want to damage it.
Is there any tricks any one has to remove the bearing without using a press and taking a chance of ruining the bearing by pressing on the inner race? I cannot afford a new set of bearings for this lathe right now.
Also, after the bearings are cleaned should I lightly oil the whole bearing before re-installing it and running it back in? That way the bearing does not start out unlubed?
Thanks, Steve