The original idea to use inline skate bearings in this configuration was from Joe Nardy. He posted pics a while back of a similar setup supported by a couple of old 4X4 wooden posts.
I happened to have a couple of jack stands I wasn't using, plus two brackets of unknown origin that I modified. I also have a supply of stainless 8mm bolts and metric taps, so I drilled and tapped the holes in the brackets to hold the bearings. Use whatever you have lying around -- it doesn't have to be precise or pretty.
I got the inline skate bearings from a friend who was replacing his skate wheels. Out of a set of 16, I found 6 that were still in great shape. You can also buy them new, of course.
My lug wrench is standing in for a motorcycle wheel in the pictures. You simply remove all the spacers and put the axle back into the wheel, then place the ends of the axle on the bearings for a virtually frictionless setup. You can literally breathe on the tire and it will start rotating. It's very easy at that point to consistently locate heavy spots.
I happened to have a couple of jack stands I wasn't using, plus two brackets of unknown origin that I modified. I also have a supply of stainless 8mm bolts and metric taps, so I drilled and tapped the holes in the brackets to hold the bearings. Use whatever you have lying around -- it doesn't have to be precise or pretty.
I got the inline skate bearings from a friend who was replacing his skate wheels. Out of a set of 16, I found 6 that were still in great shape. You can also buy them new, of course.
My lug wrench is standing in for a motorcycle wheel in the pictures. You simply remove all the spacers and put the axle back into the wheel, then place the ends of the axle on the bearings for a virtually frictionless setup. You can literally breathe on the tire and it will start rotating. It's very easy at that point to consistently locate heavy spots.