Colombo Spindle Rebuild
Isn't really as hard as it might seem. Thanks to Brady for some guidance and confidence on the matter. We replaced the bearings in our 5HP Colombo spindle ($400 approx from Alpine Bearing) and it's running fine now.
The labyrinth seals aren't so difficult if you adjust their tension for a slip fit and then localize them it their slot with some light grease so they don't shift around while spinning the shield onto the nose of the shaft.
Also, if you can't find pin spanner, check the local bicycle shop. They might be a Park Tools dealer and can order you a bottom bracket wrench that can be used. $10.
The two pieces that require the spanner really shouldn't have been as tight on our spindle as they were. That shield and jamb nut on the spindle nose don't do anything but keep the environment out of the bottom end of the spindle, but somebody at PDS gorilla'd them on our and I had to abuse them just a bit with a pin punch and light hammer to get them loose. I'm still wondering about that. Between the outer jamb nut and the umpteen setscrews that lock _it_ in place, I don't understand the necessity for that much force being applied.
Don't be daunted about replacing your own bearings. All you need is a small benchtop press, an allen wrench assortment, a rubber mallet, and a 1-1/8" open end wrench to localize the spindle shaft while working on those spindle seal pieces. (fits those flats on the spindle shaft behind the collet) Pick up a can of the high-speed grease from Alpine too. It should be enough to last a lifetime.
Thanks again, Brady.
