C2 Rear bearings

[Forrest J.]

I am not a mechanic but I am not afraid to tackle car related issues (particularly on my 65). What I thought would be a modest project -replace rotors and rear bearings is turning out to be taxing my skill set. If I would have known about this site before I started (I just read many posts about sending trailing arms out to pros) I probably would have dug deep in my tool box and pulled out the ultimate tool - the checkbook.

That said - it should not be a surprise that I had to remove the trailing arms because the spindles were seized. All is going well and now I have to shim the bearings. I obtained a shim set up tool but would like some advise on how to do the set up properly. I assume I install the inner race, bearing and outer races and test fit various shim sizes with outer bearing. I notice there a large washer on the outer end of the set up tool. What is the significance of that offset?

I would appreaciate step by set instructions using the set up tool ...I only want to have to do this once. If I can get this part of the project done I will be pretty pleased with myself.

Thanks in advance for you help.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

forrest----

Detailed instructions for the use of the set-up tool will be found in later editions (after about 1974) of the Chevrolet Corvette Shop Manual. The procedure is the same for any 64-82 Corvette.

[Wayne P.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Before you start trying a lot of different shims, start with what you took out. I have found that is usually the correct set-up.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Wayne-----

Absolutely. In fact, if one precisely measures the thickness of the inner race on both the inner and outer bearings and finds it the same as the new ones, then the same shims as came out will produce the same end-play as prior to disassembly. If one finds the inner races of different thickness, one can revise the shim accordingly. Of course, all this assumes that the end play prior to disassembly was where it ought to be.

[Jim T.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Have not used a shim set up tool although I have the Kent-More tool for removing spindles and would just push the spindle out if my bearing clearance was not within what is printed in my service manuals. I did not install the outer seal until I knew what shim I was going to use for the final assembly. What is printed is 001"-008" clearance in my service manuals. You need a dial indicator to read the bearing clearance after you install the new races, bearings, spacer piece, selected shim, using your shim set up tool just if you had the real spindle in the hub. You mentioned installing new rotors for the rear spindles. More likely than not you will have rotor runout with the new rotors that could cause air pumping of the brake calipers which the outcome is loss of brakes on the rear. Bairs in PA can rivet your new brake discs to your spindles and true them as an assembly to prevent loss a rear brakes. I agree, having it done by a facility like Bairs if you don't have all the tools and experience is a good way to ensure a complete functioning system because they will service the bearings, emergency brake, brake disc and spindle plus clean and paint it.

[John D.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Forrest, Listen to Jim and let Yogi Bair's do the whole job. They are fast, do a really nice job and are reasonable. It's ABC to them. The read bearing thing is difficult, requires a lot of special tools and experience. John

[Boyan B.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Forrest, if you are in the Los Angeles area, I would be glad to help out.

Boyan 818 227-9533

[Forrest J.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Thanks for the offer but I am in the SF Bay Area.
I have decided to finish what I started (stupidity or pride don't know which)- it will either be a satisfying experience if successful or a minor set back in the project requiring professional help if I run into trouble.

After reading the raves about Bairs I contacted them and will use them to bail me out if things go south. But, I am confident that I can do this and am willing to make the effort.

again thanks everyone for the advice
f

[Boyan B.]

Re: C2 Rear bearings

Forrest, send me your address both physical and email. I have a good how to pamphlet on what to do for the bearings. Also, if you get stuck, give me a call at home, Im on vacation so I will be around. 818 227-9533

Boyan