VN22 cutterhead bearing access?

Hi,

I'm working on my new-to-me VN22LU. I'm trying to clean out the
cutterhead bearings. The rear / top bearing is easily accessed
via the rear cover.

However I'm trying to figure out if I can access the front/lower
bearing without removing the spindle entirely? The lower bearing
cover is held in by a pin and 3 socket head screws... when I remove
these screws the cover can move forward/down by perhaps 1/8" but then
seems captive by the spindle nose itself (NMTB50 type).

The rear bearing was pretty full of old grease mixed with old
oil, so I'd like to flush the front bearing thoroughly.

I already loaded the head with diesel for a week and the old oil
and nastiness in the main drive gear cavity is clean.

Picture of the head type:

As far as I'm aware, there is no easy way too get at that lower bearing. I have the same style head as yours.

Mike (mm3squirrelly)

Sent from my S61 using Tapatalk

michael.kitko said:

As far as I'm aware, there is no easy way too get at that lower bearing. I have the same style head as yours.

Mike (mm3squirrelly)

Sent from my S61 using Tapatalk

Click to expand...

Thanks. I ended up soaking the head in diesel for a week or so,
With the lower cap separated as far as it would go (which
Provided a space of 1/8” or so).

This probably cleaned out most of the grease, I hope!