Okay first off.. per the instuctions on Mazdatrix I know how to remove the bearing by using my dremmel and a punch..

The embarasing part is I have never actualy ever repacked bearings before..

So what's up? Do I just cram an assload of grease into the bearings or is there more to this? I see they have a bearing packer tool? WTF? Is this necessary?

what do you use to get rid of the excess grease? Just some engine de greaser like gunk?

Do I have to grease up the axle as well?

If someone could do a step by step for dummies starting where everything is already taken apark and needs to be put back together that would kick so much ***..

THANKS!

 

Fill your hand with the grease then push and roll the bearing into the palm of you hand with your other hand. This will roll all of the grease into the bearing.

 

You can also get a simple packing tool at your local generic auto parts store. If you look on the Mazdatrix site for the FAQ on the bearings, you can see a picture of one of the tools. Here is another type that I use:
http://www.autosupplyusa.com/unbearpac.html

I haven't changed the bearings on a 2Gen, but when changing the bearings on a 1Gen the old races came in handy for pressing the new bearings in the hub, so don't throw them away just yet.

 

get one where you can you step on them... its better

 

What he said and do it to both ends of the bearing untill grease comes out between the bearing cylinders and the face that faces the race.

 

get the bearing packer... its not much money, u want your bearings to last and not die after a year

 

get a bearing packer, I've packed them by hand it's all nasty.. just do it with the packer and I guess it should be faster and easier.. the guy at the store can probably give you a quick tutorial too

 

Cool, so what do you guys use to clean out the old grease?

Also do I grease the axle as well?

 

when you use the packer... the oil grease will be squeezed out...

that or just imerse your bearings in gasoline over night