Hi dingaling,
Well that's one way to remove it if you don't have the correct tools, just be really careful so as not to damage the reel shaft as that's the critical area. There is probably another procedure you'll have to use when you refit the new bearings but I'll inform you of what that is later, especially on the driving side bearing which generally becomes lose over time and this situation must be remedied.
You can use top coat enamel straight over etch primer.
As far as the self aligning bearing is concerned, I'm not sure if yours actually is one as they are normally an open sided bearing and not fitted with neoprene seals. Check to see if you can oscillate the centre race. If not then you merely have a normal bearing and if that's the case you should change it for the correct type.
I'll look forward to your responses.
Cheers,
BB.
