I've just purchased new rear axle bearings and retainer rings from Ratech Engineering and they appear to be correct for a 59 application, but are a sealed bearing. Which side faces the differential pumpkin? I'm guessing the spring-wrapped seal side would be inside, but I need confirmation from someone more knowledgeable than me. Thanks in advance.
C1 rear axle new bearings install
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Re: C1 rear axle new bearings install
Hi Mark
I have a 62 vette and I replaced the bearings on both axles. When you pull the axle out, you will see an O- ring going around the bearing. Just put the new one in the same way the old one was.I did and it's fine.
Good luck...........John- Top
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Re: C1 rear axle new bearings install
John, thanks for your reply. Unfortunately, I removed the axles and discarded the old bearings before I realized that there was a right and wrong way to mount the bearings. I have downloaded all of the Archives regarding this topic and I now know more than I need about C1 rear axle bearings. I examined the bearings last night and removed the flat surfaced seal to expose the bearings. I chose not to remove the spring-loaded rubber axle seal on the opposite side as I have decided to install the bearings with the spring-loaded side out towards the axle flange hub. I am not going to reverse the seal as mentioned in the several of the Archive articles, as I do not see any logical reason to do so. As long as there is a good seal around the axle affected by the spring, the seal should work as manufactured. However, I intend to drill 4 small holes in the flat seal facing the gear oil at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock to allow the oil to gradually permeate the bearings, thus allowing the bearings to live past the expected 20,000 mile life noted by Dale Pearlman. I could just remove the seal, but I want to use the installed grease as long as I can to assist in break-in of the bearings. Am I right? Only time will tell.- Top
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