MK1 MK2 front bearing replacement race-hub issue

[1975 Kombi]

When replacing the front bearings on a MK1 or MK2 I always end up with the inner race left pressed onto the hub. The bearing is a two piece bearing and the race for the inner half of the bearing stays with the hub when pressing it out. Is there a method to remove the race from the hub. I have heard that the race is made of a very hard steel and whacking it with a hammer and chisel would break the race off. I have used a torch to cut the race off in the past but it is a very touchy deal and with the hard steel race the torch pops a lot. I am curious if there is a better way to remove the pressed on race without damaging the hub.
_________________
Brett

"I do not see things as black and white, but everything as very colourful!"

'75 Kombi/Westy (2.0L CV, H-Lifters, '75-'79FI mix, XR700, 003 Auto) project, sorta orange.
2001.5 Passat 1.8T GLS
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Rust In Peace: '72 Bug, '73 Bug, '82 Rabbit LS D 2D, '83 Rabbit D 2D, '84 Jetta TD GL, '85 Jetta D, '68 Z28 RS 302, 91 Passat 16v

[diego silva]

you need what is called a bearing splitter, google it, otc, snap-on...

[1975 Kombi]

I checked out the bearing splitter and I am not sure it can fit between the race and the hub. The race is tight against the hub.
_________________
Brett

"I do not see things as black and white, but everything as very colourful!"

'75 Kombi/Westy (2.0L CV, H-Lifters, '75-'79FI mix, XR700, 003 Auto) project, sorta orange.
2001.5 Passat 1.8T GLS
---------------------------
Rust In Peace: '72 Bug, '73 Bug, '82 Rabbit LS D 2D, '83 Rabbit D 2D, '84 Jetta TD GL, '85 Jetta D, '68 Z28 RS 302, 91 Passat 16v

[mike yapps]

Try cutting it with a cutoff wheel as much as you can, just be careful not to cut into the hub. Then whack it with a hammer and chisel to break it and it'll come right off.