MA proFlex Starter Bearing Service

[KCT]

Can the proFlex Starter Bearing be serviced ? If so is there a specific procedure that needs to be followed ? Are special tools needed to do that ?

Thanks

Kay

[DavidH]

IF it is the Proflex that the end with the bearing screws is threaded on to the flex shaft. Then yes the bearings can be replaced. If it is the older style one piece unit. I don't believe the bearings can be replaced.

As for special tools. You just need a way to press the old bearings out. Then press the new bearings in without damaging the bearings.

6mm shaft with a step on it to ride against the outer edge of the bearing.

David

[KCT]

Thanks David,

it is the ProFlex that can be dissassembled. I have a collection of older ones that are
broken and are not servicable. As much as I like the smooth action to start my engines
using the ProFlex, so I hate it for been under-designed.

Does it matter which way to press out the bearing ?

Thanks

Kay

[DavidH]

Kay,
I agree about the one piece design. Those should have been serviceable. The very first Pro Flex's were serviceable. These were the ones that used the flex drive from Black and Decker. The ends would come off the shaft and the bearing could be replaced. It was the first generation of the larger flex cable that were not serviceable. These are all one piece. I am not sure but you might call and ask about the one piece flex shafts. I think I heard that MA had a way to replace the bearings. I am probably mistakem, but I thought I heard it mentioned they could do it.

Don't know if it matters which way the bearing is pressed in and out. But me personally I would press it out the end that goes on the start shaft. and I would press it back in from the same end. I have watched them make the ends up at MA and I believe that is how they are pressed in. From the end that is not threaded.



David

[Robert Johns]

Kay,

I would have MA update your starter ends - the newer design has a bushing on both ends (internal) to help prevent damage to the needle bearings and cage when you remove it from the starting shaft. Also remember that the threads are "reversed" when removing the tip from the shaft (looking from the end of the shaft) - rotate left = tight and rotate right = loosen.

-robert

[KCT]

David, thanks for your support, I will then press it out as you describe.
I won't bother with the older ones.

Thanks again

Kay