Replace front wheel bearings on Wheel Horse Model 315-8

[John A 22]

The front wheel bearings on my Wheel Horse Model 315-8 have a lot of side play, so I plan to replace them.  I bought the tractor new from the dealer, so these are the original set of bearings.   I am fully satisfied with the bearings' performance for the last 20+ years and plan to replace with OEM bearings.  I have put the tractor through a lot of hard use in hilly lawn areas, gardens and pasture.  The tractor is a beast.    

 

It seems like a pretty straight forward task but thought I should ask the experts if there is anything special to be concerned with.   I do have trouble re-installing the black plastic dust caps.  Manly trying to get them square on the axle.  Maybe these should be replaced at the same time. 

 

Any suggestions would be appreciated. 

Thanks,

John

[Vintage_Wheel_Horse_Lover 21]

I have used a small heat gun or torch[if you do this stay back a bit so they don't melt] to get the dust caps more pliable to fit. should be a straight forward job tho

[peter lena 9,114]

@  john A   like the softer black vinyl caps , get them on line or maybe   at local H/W  store , big box  also have them on the top of the front  axel  clip  area , very durable and long lasting , pete

[John A 22]

Thanks

 

[peter lena 9,114]

 @John A  like HILLMAN MACHINE BUSHINGS ,  for those  sloppy wheel issues , 3/4 x 1-1/4 , have both 14 and 18 ga washers , local hardware store , pullout drawer section , personally  like a severe duty  grease , lucas , green , made for brutal work and very hi temp / stress loading . pete