Do i need a special tools?

Hi guys,
i am considering replacing the steering head bearings in my 98 (and have purchased tapered rollers for the job)
i have been looking at the manual for a 1998 VFR800 and it says that i need a special socket/tool to replace my steering head bearings? Does anyone know if there is another way?
Cheers.

 

Well you don't "need" it per say. You could use a big monkey wrench or other large tool to tighten the lock and stem nut. I've used a large flathead screwdriver and a hammer in a pinch. Basically you put the flat end of the screwdriver at the base of one of the grooves. It gets the job done but I'd be careful using any of the methods I described. You can maul the nuts very easily if you're not paying attention. Not to mention possibly denting/scratching your paint if you slip off the nut.

Also if you do it this way, you won't be able to properly torque them. You might have remove the triple again to give them another tightening as the new bearings settle in.

I think Harbor Freight sells the tool you need? I'll have to look into that next time I go.

Here's a photo of the tool shown on 6th gen.

 

If you're referring to the special lock nuts, you don't need the Honda tool, but you should get something that will at least allow you to torque them properly. The "hammer and drift" method won't let you torque them to proper specs, which is an important part in seating the bearings.

You can either

(A) make the tool out of a suitable donor socket by cutting teeth into the socket w/ a dremel or grinder (I can find a pic of some I've made if it helps)
-or-
(B) buy an adjustable pin spanner w/ a square-drive attachment (sq drive so you can use a torque wrench on it). This is a kinda tough tool to find in the states. It may seem kind of expensive, but IMO its worth buying. A neat feature is that you can tighten those lock nuts w/o having to remove the top triple. Don't get the kind w/ the hinged arm (you'll find those everywhere online). This pic shows the kind I'm talking about...it uses a 'rack/pinion screw' type of adjustment just like an adjustable crescent wrench.


UK site which sells them: Linky


Besides those lock nuts, you will probably benefit from a bearing puller to get the race out of the steering collar (frame) and steering stem, but the hammer & pound method can work as long as you're careful.

 

yeah, Harbour Frieght is in the states, but looks like mkbart is an aussie....

HF is a tool wholesaler that has great prices on tools that may not be the top quality, but have done fine by me.

for instance - a 30mm socket was $40 at the local auto parts store. A complete 3/4" socket set, with breaker bar from 20-40mm was like $50 bucks. don't hold me to the sizes or costs, but you get the idea.

 

Thanks for the reponses guys,

Cheers.