if i'm gonna be pressing on axle bearings on axle shafts, what size press would be the minimum?

 

I got tired of paying the local guys $30 everytime I wanted a bearing pressed on.

I bought the cheap 12ton from Summit for $150. (it woulda cost me twice as much to build one)
Figured if I used the dang thing a few times it'd pay for itself.

Now don't get me wrong, it's a rickity piece o junk, BUT......
It works.
I've pressed on/off all Ford 9inch third member bearings without issue, pinion bearings etc etc.
I also pressed on Ford 9 inch axle bearings without issue, tho you do need to get creative due to the length of the axle.

I think if I was using the thing everyday I'd go ahead and spend $600+ on a press that was easier to use, but for the occasional mechanic it works fine: https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-917030/overview/

Good luck
Drew

 

thats what i was hoping to hear.

 

Harbor freight has a 20 ton for $199.

 

Ive got a HF 20 ton........paid $159 for it and for the price.......it isn't bad!

 

I got a HF 20 ton. While less "should" work most of the time, it is nice to have the extra. I have needed it a few times... as in put the handle extension on the press jack and crank hard.

 

On another note.....

Spend the money you save on bearing/bushing tools:
OEM Bearing race and seal driver set 27119- Read2Reviews onOEM #27119

They are super handy. I also made up a tool box of odds and ends that make pressing bearings on easier (stuff like old bearing inner races, pieces of perfectly square pipe, etc).