Shopsmith Forums

Has anyone replaced the bearing on the idler shaft (almost looks like 2 bearings, but I think it's just one wide one) or the two bearings on the drive sleeve? I'm replacing the Poly V belt and while in there thought that the drive sleeve bearings felt pretty rough, and thought I'd maybe just replace everything after the work to get it all out. However, I can't find the bearings on the SS site, and I can't find a part # for the idler shaft bearing (I did find a number for the two on top on the drive sleeve). Any ideas?

Thanks,
Matt

Yes. Don't.

The bearing and the idler shaft are all one unit -- the shaft is the inner race for the bearings. You cannot press the housing off the shaft without ruining the part. This particular part has an extremely long life; I wouldn't bother replacing it if it functions reasonably well.

With all good wishes,

Nick is correct in the fact that it doesn't wear out too often but it can happen. If the bearings are not good you can order just the idler shaft and its on sale until the end of April.

Thanks. I think I'll replace the drive sleeve bearings as that looks like an easy job and just leave the idler one at the moment. It didn't feel too bad, unlike the drive sleeve bearings.