It's certainly worth swapping out the bearings, even if it's an old machine.
You will need a basic cross head screwdriver to remove back panel, and Torx bits to remove cast iron or aluminium spider that holds the bearings and water seal.
You will need a drift or something similar to tap out the old bearings and a soft faced mallet/block of wood to tap the new bearings in.
On this machine the drum does not need to be removed to pull off the spider and replace the bearings.
It helps to lay the machine on it front but ensure it's completely drained before tipping it over.
Russell Jee, August 2017