Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): ball bearing removal, impeller shaft, ball bearing

Question
Hi, i have an ariens 8/24 snowblower model #924026 ,serial #20931 and i am presently changing both belts on it. while the blower housing is removed from the tractor i would like to check or change the ball bearing that is located between the blower sheave and the fan but i am not sure of the best way to remove the bearing. behind the sheave i can see the bearing flange and the nuts but i cannot see the other flange behind the fan. what are the steps to remove the ball bearing and once removed how do i know if it needs to be changed?

thanks

Answer
Bruce:

It sounds like you take very good care of your equipment.  Kudos to you, but this is a case of "if it works don't mess with it"

Usually when this bearing goes bad it either seizes - causing the impeller to not turn, or falls apart causing a very bad noise and clunking sound.  you will know if its bad!  It is a seal bearing so unless salt gets inside of it there should not be a problem.

However, if you want to go through the work to check it you need to remove the bearing flange on both sides of the auger housing

You need to remove the pulley on the impeller shaft

Slide the auger and impeller assembly out as one unit.  

You need to remove the pulley on the impeller shaft

Push the impeller assembly through the blower housing Sometimes requires assistance of big hammer!  be careful not to mushroom the shaft when tapping it

Now you can get at your bearing which is concealed inside the bearing flange.

Hope this helps