Advice sought - Sq 4 MK II tyres and wheel bearings

[pauldridge]

Still putting my '53 Mk II back together after its angry munching of a connecting rod and piston. Now that the engine parts are at the machinist, I can devote myself to other external issues.
1) my tire(s) tread look new, but they are certainly 10-15 years old and I am starting to see a bit of checking. Time for new. Recommended brands and sizes would be appreciated
2) I have ordered new sealed front wheel bearings.
a) can I assume there is no need for seals with the sealed bearings?
b) Need advice on replacing these.. I ordered a pegged wrench from Dragans which looks like it might be of help in removing those outer keepers?

Thanks in advance

[paul.jameson]

1) Tyres. AVON AM26 Roadrider. 3.25 x 19 front, 4.00 x 18 rear.
2) No need for extra seals with sealed bearings.
3) You need an appropriate tool to remove the retaining rings which screw in to the hub with a normal right hand thread. The brake side bearing for the front wheel has a "top hat" spacer inside it which you will need to press out of the old bearing and into the new one.

[Brian.Fosh]

Hi Phil.
When I chose my tyres, I did a bit of hunting for online data and found 1.5 inches difference between some tyre O/D's. That's 5 inches difference in travel per rev of the rear wheel. It's also equivalent to around half the change in gearing from fitting one of Drags 40T clutch sprockets instead of 44T. The reasons for choosing Tyres is mighty varied and personal of course... but I thought it was interesting to dscover such a wide range of diameters.
Regards, Brian.

[Simon.Gardiner]

If you've got a 19" front and an 18" rear you can use Bridgestone BT45 for both (won't have anything else on my BM so they must be good for a Square!)

SG