Do I need the proper tool to replace front wheel bearings, or is there a less expensive way to do it?

Thanks! Ben

Ben,
you can drill through the bearing retaining ring at the 'notches' where the removal/fitting tool engages.
Start with a 5mm drill bit and work upwards in size until the halves of the ring can be collapsed inwards.

When refitting, get some 1/4" square bar and cut it down so that it fits across between the notches, then tap that round with a drift.
Try and avoid using the punch directly on the retaining ring, as that could damage the threads in the hub carrier.

ken
( Note that it would be preferable to use the correct tool, however. )

Somewhere or other I did a quick write up on how to do it with the tool, I think it is in Russ's red spesh thread. It is easier with the tool.

Here:

viewtopic.php?f=5&t=1831&start=230

Thanks very much all! Looks like the tool might be the easier route