I was checking the front wheel bearings on my 55 2nd series. Found the passenger original outside bearing and races were pitted. The original inside bearing and races were in good shape. Can I use the original inside ball bearing/races with a new outside roller bearing and race? I am trying to work on a tight budget. Isn't everyone nowadays.
I think you can. Use up to date wheel bearing lubricant and follow the procedures in the shop manual starting on this page: http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/gmc/5559mm/5559mm659.html All things equal, the outer bearing will wear out first because it is smaller. Don't mix ball and roller bearings on one hub because the preload requirements are different.
don't mix.... Bill is right on the money..........either run balls or rollers.......in the long run with any custom wheel and/or wider tire set, rollers will protect your kingpins and save you money..........
CJ: Go with the tapered roller bearings if you can, they make a world of difference in ride and feel, very smooth now. Check out e-bay, I bought a set a few months ago, come to find out there sold by CCP and half the catalog price, $69 compared to $119. Inner and outer bearings and seals. Use a good high temp grease when packing. Good luck. Rich..
I realize this is probably a trade secret to most, but I thought I'd give it a try... After a year or so working on my '56 3200, I have one of those really good relationships with my parts store, and currently have a credit balance with them that I'd like to use. Does anyone know or have the ability to find out the mfr and part number for the bearing/race set for replacing the ball bearings with roller bearings? I can't imagine that the custom shops/outlets had these manufactured specially for Tri-5 pickups? Unfortunately, with the disappearance of the old schools parts stores, you can't pull up old specification catalogs to compare ID/OD measurements and find the part you want. Appreciate any inside information anyone might have.
The New Departure part numbers for roller bearings to replace the ball bearings were the same ND part number with an R on the end. So the inner bearing was 909052R and the outer was 909067R. Haven't been able to find these ND bearings in years.
