Topic: Can't get axle back in front wheel

[Bonz55]

I can insert the axle into both sides of the wheel hub, but it will not exit through the other side. The threaded part will exist, but it gets stuck right about there.  The fact that I can do this from both sides is confusing to me, as the axle seems like it would be lined up with the spacer and bearings, logically.

Am I missing something? I've been trying to get this thing back through the wheel for about an hour now and am resisting any hammer force. The only thing I can think of is that the spacer isn't lined up and the axle hits the edge of the bearing and won't go through, but Im moving the spacer around a bit with a screw driver and it seems straight.

Please help.

[flybox1]

put a finger in there to feel the edge of the spacer is centered on the inner race.
If youre sure the un-threaded portion of the axle fits into each bearing, then sure, id reach for a wood block and tap a bit till it runs through.
Just check that the threaded portion is centered best it can be, before tapping.

[Bonz55]

Thanks for the tip. I tried tapping and it went right in. I was afraid to do so because I screwed a bearing up last week doing that and I told myself I had learned my lesson about tapping things with hammers on this thing.

Thanks

[przjohn]

I like your style. Always better to ask a question before grabbing a hammer. 

[70CB750]

I think thats quite normal for the axle needed little tap to slide in.  I usually clean it with 120 paper and coat it with grease before installing.