Topic: CB550 wheel bearing replacement and power coating

[sweet_baby_james]

I am getting the rims and hubs from my 78 CB550k powder coated.  The front wheel bearing need to be replaced anyway as they appear to be original and the grease packing is full of dirt etc so I figure I will remove the old and fit new ones once the powder coating is done.

The rear is a different story; the bearings look to be replacements, the grease is still nice and clean, new bearing retainer, so I see no need to replace these.  But, is it possible to get the hubs powder coated with the bearings still in there?  Not sure exactly what temperature the powder coat process uses.

I've been reading up on the bearing replacement process and would prefer to avoid it if possible!

Thanks

[flybox1]

Yes, I'd be worried about grease weeping all over the place during bake. I'd take them out, regardless, and install sealed bearings.  Talk to you PC guy.  He may tell you temps and give you an idea on how to proceed. You might be able to put in sealed bearings before pc, and just mask them, so you won't damage the pc trying to install them.
The rear bearing process is simple. Don't let it stop you from doing things right.

[matt mattison]

If your wheel bearings are anywhere near 10,000 miles, you should change them regardless . If the true mileage on the current set is unknown, change them. Your up on two wheels and everything like that matters. You might not have a choice anyway, as I cant see a powder coater recommending that you leave them in the hubs. The heat will cook the seals and the grease will run out in the oven.