How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your SRAM XD Hub

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Replacing or servicing the bearings in your SRAM XD [paid link] hub is an essential part of maintaining its smooth performance and extending its lifespan. Bearings are critical components of the hub, allowing it to rotate smoothly while transferring power from your pedals to the wheels. Over time, dirt, moisture, and friction can cause the bearings to wear out, leading to a rough ride and reduced efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing or servicing the bearings in your SRAM XD [paid link] hub.

Tools Required

  • SRAM XD [paid link] hub bearing kit
  • Bike stand [paid link] or a stable surface for working
  • 5mm hex wrench
  • 10mm socket wrench or axle nut wrench
  • Bearing press [paid link] tool
  • Grease
  • Clean rags
  • Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
  • Needle or pin punch tool
  • Rubber mallet
  • Torque wrench [paid link]

Step 1: Remove the Wheel and Disassemble the Hub

To start the bearing replacement process, you must first remove the wheel from the bike and disassemble the hub.

  1. Place your bike in a stable position, ideally on a bike stand [paid link].
  2. Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the axle from the wheel.
  3. Gently remove the cassette from the freehub body by loosening the lockring, using the correct lockring tool [paid link].
  4. Take the freehub body off the hub shell by carefully sliding it off. Be cautious as the bearings will now be exposed.

Step 2: Remove the Old Bearings

Once you have access to the hub’s interior, it’s time to remove the old bearings. You can either replace them entirely or clean and service them if they are not excessively worn.

  1. Identify the bearings in the hub shell and freehub body. You should see at least two bearings inside the shell.
  2. Use a needle or pin punch tool to tap gently around the outer edges of the bearing. This will help loosen it.
  3. Once loosened, remove the bearing from the hub by pushing it out. You can use a bearing press [paid link] tool if necessary to push the bearing out without damaging the hub.
  4. Repeat this process for each bearing that needs replacement.

Step 3: Clean the Hub and Inspect for Damage

Before installing new bearings, thoroughly clean the hub shell and freehub body.

  1. Use a clean rag and isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the interior of the hub shell, ensuring there is no dirt, grime, or old grease.
  2. Check the hub shell for any cracks, damage, or wear. If you find any significant damage, you may need to replace the entire hub.
  3. Inspect the freehub body as well. Ensure there are no burrs or worn spots that could cause issues with the new bearings.

Step 4: Install the New Bearings

With the hub clean and inspected, you can now install the new bearings.

  1. Take the new bearings from your SRAM XD hub bearing kit and apply a small amount of grease to the outer edges of each bearing.
  2. Carefully place the new bearing into the hub shell, ensuring it is aligned correctly. Use a bearing press [paid link] tool to press the bearing in firmly but gently, ensuring it sits flush with the hub shell.
  3. Repeat the process for any additional bearings.
  4. Once the bearings are seated, spin the hub by hand to make sure everything is moving smoothly.

Step 5: Reassemble the Hub

Now that the bearings are installed, it’s time to reassemble the hub.

  1. Slide the freehub body back into the hub shell. Make sure it engages properly with the new bearings.
  2. Reinstall the cassette onto the freehub body and tighten the lockring using the appropriate lockring tool [paid link].
  3. Reattach the axle to the wheel using a 5mm hex wrench, ensuring that all bolts are properly torqued according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 6: Test the Hub and Adjust

Before hitting the road, take some time to test the functionality of the hub.

  1. Spin the wheel by hand to check the freehub’s engagement and make sure there is no roughness or grinding.
  2. Ensure that the wheel is spinning smoothly without any drag or wobble.
  3. If you notice any resistance or noise, check the alignment of the bearings again and ensure they were installed correctly.
  4. After confirming everything is functioning properly, torque the axle and lockring bolts to their specified settings.

Conclusion

Replacing or servicing the bearings in your SRAM XD hub is a relatively straightforward task that can have a big impact on the performance of your bike. By following these steps, you can ensure your hub runs smoothly, extending its lifespan and improving the overall riding experience. Proper bearing maintenance will keep your hub rolling efficiently and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Be sure to regularly check the condition of your bearings and replace them as needed to maintain peak performance on every ride.