Thanks much for all the responses. I was pretty sure it was the wheel bearings, but I have this weird tendency to over analyze problems and second guess myself, so it's great to have some backup and tips from people who have done the job before. I won't have time to tackle this for a couple of days, but I will let everyone know how it comes out. Sort of like Car Talk's "Stump the Chumps" segment, isn't it?

Now I've got to go drive my cage to work . . . . (snif)

Craig

 

liquid nitrogen i would really not suggest
coz such low temperatures tend to broke more things than help you out if you know what i mean

 

Finally found a few minutes to put the bike on the stand and jack up the front. The bearings are bad.

Are those Yamaha sled bearings (#6004) sealed?

Craig

 

Yep - the 6004's are all the same.....bike, sled, whatever

 

anyone have the number for the rears?

 

Rear should be 6304 uu

There you can find those http://www.skf.com/files/059324.pdf

The front bearing is also there (6004 )

 

Cheers mate

 

Got the bearings; they're in the freezer. I've taken out the bolts that clamp the front axle. But I cannot budge the axle! I've tried all the tricks I know, including PB Blaster and my trusty impact wrench. I don't have access to pneumatic tools. Any ideas?

Craig

 

I use one of those car wheel nut removers with an extending handle.

"Give me a lever long enough and I can move the world" - Archimedes

 

Sometimes you need to shock it - good whack with a hammer works well, maybe some wd40.....
(I'm starting to sound like Harry T !)