At 10:05 AM 10/10/2001, Jeff Boatright wrote:
>Peter,
>Thanks for the information. I have done this before, that is, gone through
>the mental gymnastics of figuring out exactly what forces are on the
>bearings and hence how they should be installed - and of course this
>included cross-checking the Haynes with the Clymer, the Bentley, and the
>Moss information. You are quite right to point out that I may have them
>facing the wrong way, though I really thought I had them correct.
>
>Is it possible to get the bearings out without destroying the hub seal?
>Are there any tricks? I'd just as soon not have to buy all new when there
>is a new set in the hubs right now.
>
>Finally, are the plastic cages as good as the older style cages, in your
>experience? Are there alternatives?
==
Jeff,
Quite confusing when you read all those books on this subject,
isn't it? You'd think someone would explain the physics so that it would be
obvious. Anyway, for the price of a seal, couple-a-bucks, I wouldn't work
too hard at trying to save it. With judicious drifting, you can keep the
bearings, and probably reuse your old ones (from the old hubs), with some
careful inspection for pitting on the races and balls.
Plastic cages are being used by many manufacturers on many
bearings, so I couldn't say they are inherently inferior. Though, I must
agree with Frank, given a choice I feel more comfortable with metal; just a
gut feeling. I can't say that personally I have had any negative feedback
from the current supply of bearings. They do look "less hefty", FWIW.
Other alternatives? NOS bearings are possible, though "shelf rot"
might undo any advantage. Roller bearings might be a good alternative, but
with the reported problems some have had, I'd go carefully.
Another possible cause comes to mind. I do know that used hubs
with good bearing surfaces are hard to find. Several salvage dealers I know
say that they are running about 30% unusable for that reason. Too loose le
track for the races.
Take another look at what you have. Try to recall how hard they
went in.... recheck the nut tightness.
Good luck.
Peter
|