How to maintain shielded insulated bearings

Many bearings are used in an environment which is conducive to dust, dirt and grime. Because of this they
usually need to be maintained at regular intervals to make sure they work correctly. Some bearing have shields
which can protect the bearing to some extent. However, these still need to be maintained occasionally.

The shields on insulated bearing can usually be removed easily. All you have to do is insert a clean knife
carefully under the shield and prise it away. When you clean the shields make sure you use a solution which
doesn’t contain a solvent based  product as it can damage the rubber.  When they are removed however the
bearings can be cleaned as you wish. A good way to clean a small bearing is to place it in a jar of cleaning
solution, and with the lid tightened, which can be agitated  to remove the grease and grime.

The solution can be changed a few times and the bearing shaken until no grease or grime remains and the
cleaning solution remains a clear colour. After the bearing is completely dry you can relubricate the bearing with
the recommended lube or grease and refit the shields.