can't insert alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing

[timbehnen]

Did we get this gimbal bearing set and the engine alignment checked yet?

No I have not. Other home projects got in the way. I plan to pull the gimbal bearing out again tomorrow evening and attempt to reinsert. I'll let you know how it goes.

 

[alldodge]

If you pull the bearing out, your probably going to damage it. Maybe you have a tool that can grab the outer race without applying any pressure to the inner one. So far I don't know of anyone which can remove one without damaging it. Been wrong before and probably will be again

 

[timbehnen]

If you pull the bearing out, your probably going to damage it. Maybe you have a tool that can grab the outer race without applying any pressure to the inner one. So far I don't know of anyone which can remove one without damaging it. Been wrong before and probably will be again

I have the Mallory Gimbal Bearing Remover tool. I did pull the bearing. Looking at it I could tell the inner portion was not sitting parallel to the outter portion. I could not move it with my hands so I gave it a rap with a hammer and then it sat parallel as it should. I then re-inserted the bearing. Once seated i was able to insert the alignment tool easily and turn it with two fingers as I could before removing the original bearing. Additionally, I must have gotten the grease whole lined up properly because I was now able to grease the bearing and end up with a consistent bead of grease coming out all around the bearing.

I'm replacing the u-joints as well so once I complete that I'll put it all back together and test it out.

Thanks everyone for you help.