Bronze bearing installation in head light motors

[Keith M.]

Any of you guys know an easy way to put the brass bearing back in my head light motor?

Thanks

[Tim E.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

I had to invent this tool which is similar to a mini-press. I would draw down the wing nuts to apply just a little pressure on the bushing then with a small screwdriver spread each of the retainer ears a little to slowly work the bushing back into place. I repeated this about 20 times and the bushing reseated. Work in tiny increments.

[John M.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

Keith, I just replace the retainer with a new one. The original is just lightly spot-welded in place, and it pretty easy to remove. I use epoxy to glue the new retainer in place and clamp it with a deep socket to hold it place while the epoxy sets.
I am now very careful about cleaning the shaft off before trying to remove the armature. I have accidentally pulled the bearing out in the past because there was rust and crud on the shaft which kept the shaft from going through the bearing, and made the bearing pull out of the retainer. I now only remove the bearing if it is truly worn out, and that is seldom!

Regards, John McGraw.

[Keith M.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

Tim,I woul like to talk to you about your press. As I see it there are a couple of steps I may not understand. If you do not mind sharing your phone number so I can give you a call to talk me through your procress I would appreciate it. If you want to you can email your phone number to me at kmajure@bellsouth.net. Thanks

[Keith M.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

John how long do you think the epoxy will hold? In other words how much are you using the headlight after the repair? I drive this Vette a good bit and I am concerned about durability of the epoxy. Are you applying the epoxy in spots or all around the retainer? Thanks.

[John M.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

Keith,

I would expect that the epoxy will hold as long as the motor housing does not rust away. I cover the entire flange of the retainer with epoxy, and clamp it overnight while it cures.

Regards, John McGraw

[Keith M.]

Re: Bronze bearing installation in head light moto

Thanks John.