Fitting a dust cap!

[Smithyyy]

OK so here's a really dumb question - I've been happily changing bearings and brake parts in my AL-KO (2361) hubs - the one bit I can't suss out is fitting the new hub caps! Can never get them straight, they just fall out again when I try to tap them in! The manual talks about using a "former" but I've never seen one for sale - so what's the trick?!

[Trailer Guy]

lol, most people have trouble getting them off, not putting them back on

The 'former' is likely a dust cap removal tool, specific for Alko dust caps. I have one and they're incredibly useful.

It a cast ally tool, that fits over the dust cap, with an arm sticking out of it (that's a rubbish description, I know). You strike the arm and it pops the dust cap off, without damaging it.

The trouble with geting an Alko dust cap off, without one of these, is that you invariably damage the edge of the dust cap prising it off (using a screwdriver etc) and then, as it's no longer circular, it becomes a pita to put back on.

If yours still looks in pretty good shape then it's prob just a case of getting one half 'in' and then giving the other side a bloody good thump (on the turned edge).

lol, any of that any help whatsoever??!

[Boats&Outboards]

Where can you get your hands on one of them, any links ?

Peter @ Boatsandoutboards4sale ~ askboatsandoutboards4sale@sky.com ~ 07930 421007

[Trailer Guy]

I get all my bits like that made by a friendly chap with a lathe. Do you want me to find out how much?

[Boats&Outboards]

Thanks for the offer. I should be ok, will pop in local trailer centre to have a look

Peter @ Boatsandoutboards4sale ~ askboatsandoutboards4sale@sky.com ~ 07930 421007

[Trailer Guy]

no worries. let me know if you get stuck.

[Smithyyy]

OK, thanks! At least now I have it officially from the expert, I am authorised to just welly it harder and/or get a bigger hammer! No incredibly cunning technique involved then.....

[Trailer Guy]

Not when it comes to putting them back on sir, 'fraid not!