Why is my CAT eating bearings?

[AndrewSi]

I have gone through a second bearing in the rear wheel on my cat mini bike and I don't know why. Anyone know why this is happening? Am I too fat? lol It keeps happening on the right side(when sitting on the bike).

 

[toomanytoys]

Check your bushings. I'd say you are tightening it down too much and side loading the bearings

 

[cheezy1]

Axle bolt too tight? Do you exceed the gross vehicle weight load?

 

[derekbmn]

I'm gonna guess you are using the "snap ring" bearings ??? Please show a pic of what you are using if possible.

 

[AndrewSi]

I guess I could be overtighening the bolt. Don't we all pretty much exceed the weight load on these bikes lol? I weigh about 190

 

[cheezy1]

I guess I could be overtighening the bolt. Don't we all pretty much exceed the weight load on these bikes lol? I weight about 190

No..you are good on the weight. Only cause I am the same. Must be just over tight:laugh:.

 

[AndrewSi]

I'm gonna guess you are using the "snap ring" bearings ??? Please show a pic of what you are using if possible.

I was using the original Hiem(sp?) bearing that was in the rim.

 

[derekbmn]

The originals were Fuji bearings. If you have the correct Heim replacement bearings....they are as good as it gets.

Something else (as mentioned) is the culprit if so.

 

[derekbmn]

Here is the correct Heim bearing....

 

[Outlaw Ace]

Does your wheel have an inner spacer between the bearings? If not it needs one to even the bearing load out.

 

[AndrewSi]

Does your wheel have an inner spacer between the bearings? If not it needs one to even the bearing load out.

No, it does not. It's the stock cat rear rim, should it have one? Where can I get one?

 

[derekbmn]

The stock wheels didn't use the spacers....not to say you couldn't use one.:shrug:

 

[Stangrcr1]

Do you have a dial caliper? Easy to measure how long the spacer needs to be.

The spacer will help your bearings live a good long life.

 

[Havasu Dave]

Another vote for axle nuts too tight. If you have the right bearings. I run mine fairly loose so there is no drag on them.

 

[jimh]

The radial bearings with the flange don't use spacers. If you use regular ball roller bearings, like the snap ring bearings without the snap rings, or high speed bearings, you need a spacer. If you have the old original flanged bearings, and ride a lot , they just don't last long. With those, overtightiening causes it to eat on the "cup" on the inside.

 

[george3]

Are you using a self locking nut? Not just a standard easy to thread on nut? You need a looking nut and just snug it down on a mini bike with out rear chain adjustment. It needs just a minimal bit of play side to side for bearings.