Honda-SOHC

A stupid question but is the roller bearing damaged and worn? The gearbox on Ratty had over 45k on it (probably over 50k as the PO had fitted a mini Speedo on the bike at some point). When I checked the roller bearings they were fine, no play, no nasty rumbling and no tight spots. The rest of the engine was in a terrible condition as a result of the PO blasting it with a sand gun. The roller bearing was good to go again but unfortunately the shaft was worn beyond repair and I purchased the two gear shafts from Ted. I have no idea how many miles were on that gearbox but again the roller bearings were absolutely fine.

How to remove the output bearing.

Remove the gear next to to bearing, fit the shaft loosely in a vice so not to mark it and allow it to move and knock the bearing off the shaft so that it moves away from the collar, once it moves a little it will come off easily. Protect the end of the shaft when hitting it. Once off there is a really thin oring fitted between the bearing and the collar, on no account try to remove the collar unless it’s ruined. Do not under any circumstances insert anything between the bearing and the collar.

From a trusted source


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I'd complete an more in depth version of Bryan's assessment.

If you've transmitted any grit or other debris into the bearing by cleaning, then they can sound bad.

Really wash it independently (only tgat shaft and bearing) with something like paraffin, then clean that all with strong mix of washing up liquid to completely remove anything that's in the bearing.

Completely dry it with compressed air or hairdryer, then you can recheck for any unwanted radial movement.

Now put clean engine oil into bearing and assess what it's like for smooth movement. 


Thats a good idea. But I think I'm going to be better safe than sorry and while its fully stripped replace parts that can be replaced. Some of the bearings in the crank case were pretty bad. I'll clean them up once they're off and if they seem ok see if anyone would like them.

Just spoke to John http://johnoldfield.co.uk/ and he has some in stock so I've ordered them. I'm already in deep so whats another £100   :'(
It generally takes alot to wear them, any unwanted grit makes them feel awful if not cleaned out.