As I was working on WorkBench TWO, I pushed my router a too hard and burned the main bearing in my Dewalt DW618 router. This blog will describe in 48 pictures with commentary how to replace this bearing. I was not able to find any post that directly addressed this problem.
This is the Bearing you will need.
Tools required:
- Torx screw drivers T20 and T25
- Needle nose pliers
- Channel locks are very large crescent wrench
- Hammer. I used by 2 lb small sledge
- Large straight screw driver for pyring
- Dewalt standard router wrench
- Some large 1/2″ drive sockets and extensions ( look at the pictures ).
There are some overriding notes to this process. Read these notes first.
I failed a major step in the replacement process. The shaft of the router connection into the main bearing, inner race is a “heat” fit. I found this means the main bearing inner race should be heated so it will expand. This will allow the shaft to slip into the bearing. My solution was to beat the shaft to push the shaft through the bearing. My method did work, but I think I damaged the bearing. The bearing does not seem to turn as smoothly as I think it should. The fix to this problem is the picture to the right. Using the light blub ( with a socket and wiring ), the inner race of the bearing would be heated very slowly without damaging the bearing itself. This idea is attributed to John Lanciani on Woodnet.net aka jlanciani. Careful ! Using this method means the bearing will be HOT!
I have a picture showing the use of PB Blaster. This is crazy good stuff for bolts and shafts that are stuck. Good to have around if you do any work with machinery. I had to use it when I replaced the motor in my Cyclone Dust Collection system. I do not believe you would need this if the bearing is heated and the shaft cooled. ( Freezer ).
Here are the step by step pictures with commentary on each picture.
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