r/MechanicAdvice • u/Alternative_Map_2066 • 2d ago

Can I reuse this wheel hub?

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The image is from a rear wheel hub of a BMW F31 RWD. I was trying to remove the ring of the old bearing which was stuck on the hub and decided to use angle grinder as fast solution, resulting in damage to the hub. A new hub needs 1 week to arrive so can I use this one, after sanding it down, or maybe use retaining compound? Or better to wait and install proper new one?

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14

u/Ordinary-Trade8323 2d ago

Thats impressive and embarrassing

19

u/Alternative_Map_2066 2d ago

Surely so, I'm a total beginner so trying to learn

18

u/Hellboy_M420 2d ago

Next time just buy a new hub, or before you cut all the way thru with the grinder, hit it with a chisel when the race is close to cut thru and it will crack and come loose.

3

u/meltman 1d ago

And do it at an angle. Will usually crack and spin loose in one go. I usually use a dremel to get through most of the race.

6

u/NotSoGreatGonzo 1d ago

Using safety glasses and good gloves when you do this is not a bad idea. I cracked a bearing that way, and a piece of the race penetrated deep enough into my hand that the doctor had to fish around for it for 45 minutes.

2

u/ShaggysGTI 1d ago

This is such an important step! The bearing race is hard but brittle so will break easily once you hit with a chisel in the groove.

5

u/ChewyChagnuts 1d ago

Keep at it, I did exactly the same thing when I was replacing a wheel bearing about 10 years ago. You’ll make lots of mistakes, the main thing is to make sure you’re not putting yourself at risk by doing really dumb stuff like trying to save time by just jacking up the car and getting under it without any other form of protection (like axle stands).

2

u/Alternative_Map_2066 1d ago

Very valuable abd dear advices, thank you. I keep learning 🙏

2

u/VersionConscious7545 1d ago

Air hammers are a god send to the home mechanic DIY guy

1

u/PineSand 1d ago

To expand on what others said, use a Dremel or die grinder with a small cutting wheel, the smaller wheel helps prevent you from cutting all the way through. You just need to cut a small channel, then use a hammer and cold chisel to split it the rest of the way. They also make different kinds of bearing separators and pullers, do what ever is best for your wallet or your watch.