Wheel bearing replacement

[dseretakis]

I'm trying to replace the front wheel bearing on my 71 280SL and I'm having a hard time driving out the smaller race (the one closer to the lock nut). I tried with a brass punch but the harder metal of the race chewed it up. I then tried a pin punch for driving out brake pad retaining pins but it just slips as the edge profile of the race is not enough to get a good grip. Any other tips? Does putting the hub in the freezer help?

[dseretakis]

Ok I got it out by pounding the edges with a big scewdriver. Let's hope I can get it all back together now.

[Cees Klumper]

When you put in new bearings, make sure to only apply pressure / hit the inside race, i.e. so as to not damage the balls or outside race.

[dseretakis]

When you put in new bearings, make sure to only apply pressure / hit the inside race, i.e. so as to not damage the balls or outside race.

I'm not sure I follow. Also, I'm really confused as to which is the inside and which is the outside race. The BBB is really confusing in this regard. Also, the smaller race ( I don't know if it is the inside or out) has some blueing but no blatant scoring or pitting. I'm not sure if this is enough to cause the awful grating noise I heard which led me to replace my bearing in the first place. Perhaps the noise is originating from somewhere else. I guess I'll find out once everything goes back together!

[dseretakis]

I'm a little confused about the radial sealing ring. When I disassembled the hub another ring which seems to act as a spacer to the radial sealing ring popped out. My new bearing kit does not have this "spacer".  What is this thing and is it necessary?