2cnd Gen Rear Axle Bearing Replacement

I have found several videos and discussions on replacing the axle bearings/seals on a Tacoma. I have yet to find one that is specific to the 2cnd Gen. I know it's similar but there are differences like no tone ring and the use of an axle washer before the inner retainer.

Then I ran across the Doorman website that states right on it that there are "no special tools required". I was confused because I had thought up until then that you needed a shop press and the SST to perform this job on a Tacoma. I started a chat session with the Doorman agent and he continued to maintain that you "just bolt it on". Since I do not have a press or the SST this sparked my interest! He even sent me the Alldata diagram that had arrows pointing to the bolts mounting the bearing hub to the backing plate. Why would an actual parts manufacturer make such a claim if it wasn't true right!?

https://www.dormanproducts.com/p-87...el=Tacoma&parttype=Wheel%20Bearing&origin=YMM

Anyway - I finally told him he was wrong and suggested they correct their web site and stop the false advertising. I have since bought a custom made puller from donald_the_bonald on ebay who was recommended by Timmy the Toolman. Found a set of Timken/Koyo bearing assemblies on this website (Thanks tacotunner06) and got a parts listing from the dealership on what the rest of the parts are. I found a 12 Ton HF press on ebay locally for $120 but might just get the 20 Ton new from HF for $147.

Now to my questions.

1. Can the axle retainer and washer be reused?
2. Can the nuts that mount the bearing assy to the backing plate be reused (listed as a non-reusable part in Tacoma repair manual)
3. If the answer is no on the nuts, what size and grade are these?
4. Has anyone done this on a 2cnd Gen and have any things to watch for - like how to position the retainer properly so the inner seal rides n the center of it? I assume I just press the entire thing together and the washer basically puts it in the right position.


Thanks!

 

A buddy and I built a steel jig to try and press the thing apart without success. I had to cut the retainer off to get the axle and bearing separated. That being said the retainer is not reusable but is handy when pressing the whole assembly back together. Answer to your other questions below:
2. Yes, I did
3 IMO, not needed
4. Take your time and make sure the bearing is straight as possible before pressing or it can bind then your looking at a do over.