Arbor Shaft Bearings

I don’t know what a “4511” is , but bearings are cheap , you have it apart and if there is any doubt (ie thought enters mind) I would replace them. Anyway, it is often instructive . You might even be able to up grade a bit , by installing sealed bearings rather than shielded ones if these were there.

That’s kind of a flip the coin question, isn’t it … :-) I understand your logic, but I personally subscribe to the “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” group. I have an R4511 and love it. I have not heard of anyone having arbor bearing problems with this saw on any of the forums, including the Ridgid forum, so I would tend to think that it is not a problem waiting to bite you. Unless the saw was abused or saw heavy usage like a professional cabinet shop, I would tend to think that 2 -2.5 years makes it hardly broken in. I guess I would rather work with the saw than on it!

-- Paul, Auburn, WA

words of wisdom from Paul.

Why do you have it apart? If I had it apart I would put new bearings in it. I wouldn’t take it apart unless something is broken.

My 2 table saws are 50+ years old and have never had the arbor bearings replaced as far as i know. If they are worn after 2-2.5 years you have a seriopus problem. (Hmmmm, a thought to myself, maybe this is what a wobble dado blade does to a saw?)
MIKE

-- See pictures on Flickr - http://www.flickr.com/photos/44216106@N07/ And visit my Facebook page - facebook.com/MTEnterprises

Update. Arbor bearings are not in the best condition after all. Arbor shaft is very difficult to turn. That would probably relate to the premature belt wear of the belt the previous owner had on it. I have already purchased a new belt. Yesterday I ordered replacement arbor bearings. I removed the nut, pulley, spacer and shaft key on the belt end of the arbor shaft. I attempted to tap out the arbor shaft but it will not budge. Should I take the assembly with the new bearings to my local machine shop and let them do the work?? I will apply some penetrant and let it sit overnight and try one more time. Advise??

-- "Of all the things I have lost in life, I miss my mind the most."

youre probably going to need a bearing puller. I think you can get them fairly cheap at harbor freight. You can try to freeze it to make it shrink a little. If youre hesitant about it take it to the machine shop, for $20 or so itll be worth it.

-- "there aren’t many hand tools as awe-inspiring as the #8 jointer. I mean, it just reeks of cast iron heft and hubris" - Smitty

Well, I got the arbor shaft and bearings out of the housing without damaging anything. Used a block of hardwood and a mallet. Also got the cabinet back from powder coating. Looks good. Will post photos.

-- "Of all the things I have lost in life, I miss my mind the most."