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I had to replace the disc side bearings on my Pro 2 Evo hub about 4 months ago (probably after about 8 months of riding). I used no-brad cheapy bearing from the LBS and the disc side bearing have just gone again (I do ride a lot in all weathers). I've just replaced both rear hub bearing with with proper Hope stainless steel sets, so we'll see how long they last.
I'm fitting with proper Hope tools, but am a tad ham fisted when tapping in the bearing with the tools (occasionally having to drift them out again to get them in straight). It has been suggested that a bearing press might be a better option (although Hope recommend their own tools); which should I use.
Any reasons why it's the disc side bearing that seem to go and what are folks recommendations for replacements (should I stick with Hope)?
I used no-brad cheapy bearing
This probably answers your questions. If you smash through the Hope ones just as quickly then you've got a problem, I'd play the waiting game for now
Should I be looking to buy a bearing press or just go steady with the Hope tools?
Yep. I've had the same issue (can't remember what sort of quality they were - I have a feeling they were decent though.
I use a length of 10mm studding and some washers to wind the bearings in (have been known to use the old bearings instead of washers)
This time I know they were decent bearings, so we'll see how long they last.....
Don't tap them in, press.
If you are at all off centre, or not applying in line forces or shocking the inner race you'll run the risk of killing the bearing. Having to tap them out again sounds like you are well into that........
So I assume that a length of threaded rod and some wingnuts would work. Presumably I could use the hope tools I already have to press against the bearings.
Hope use the tapping in technique on their 'how to' video and seemed to confirm this when I emailed them to query it.
Anyway, we'll see how long the decent ones last.
It just seemed odd that it's the disc side bearings that have gone both times.
heat the hub with hot water to make it easier to fit
i reckon the bloke in the hope video will be doing it on a proper workbench with the proper tools (soft faced hammer of some description) and will have done 5000 of them since last time i had to press a bearing in........
I assume it's the front hub? If so, the loading on the disc side will be significantly higher than the other side whenever the brake is applied.
The bloke from Hope will be using a press normally, but no point in showing that in a diy video. If you're from the Cardiff area (as I seem to remember), feel free to bring the stripped hub/wheel in to me at Sunset, and i'll press the bearings in with my hydraulic press for you (maybe pack them with grease too, if i've got time).