I recently found this forum as I am currently trying to restore an old Delta wood lathe and could use some advice at its current state. When I picked up the lathe, the motor worked and everything seemed intact except for the belts. I considered using link belts to replace these worn v-belts, but instead opted to dismantle the headstock. The existing bearings came off the spindle without too much effort after which I worked on finding replacement bearings. The boxes do not specify their dimensions, though I was told they have identical ID and OD, while because one is a bit thinner, I was given a couple dished washers.
My reservations arise after noticing how snug the new bearings fit on the spindle. I can find a tube or pipe that just fits over the spindle and hammer the then on, but am sure they would not come off without being destroyed with a puller I do not have. In the meantime, I tried putting the spindle in the freezer overnight to lessen it's diameter, but the bearings were no less tight. I am reluctant to hammer the new bearings on remembering how the old ones came off by hand. Here are some pictures of how the project currently stands.
My reservations arise after noticing how snug the new bearings fit on the spindle. I can find a tube or pipe that just fits over the spindle and hammer the then on, but am sure they would not come off without being destroyed with a puller I do not have. In the meantime, I tried putting the spindle in the freezer overnight to lessen it's diameter, but the bearings were no less tight. I am reluctant to hammer the new bearings on remembering how the old ones came off by hand. Here are some pictures of how the project currently stands.