Like so many of us, I'm always wishing my 62 steered and handled a little better. Actually, it steers and handles just fine, it just isn't a new C5. Anyway, I have read a number of posts over the past few years regarding the alleged advantages of converting the ball bearing to tapered roller. I have long suspected that those seeing a significant change either were suffering from worn bearings or their bearings were improperly adjusted.
I bought a set of roller bearings and seals several months ago, knowing full well that there was nothing wrong with the bearings I had. They were in good condition, recently cleaned, repacked and adjusted.
Getting to the point, I installed the new bearings last night. In the absence of any specific torque recommendations, I used the time honored tighten 'em up and back off a flat method. Everything felt pretty good, but just to be sure, I verified that I had about .003" end play with a dial indicator.
Road test: I tried to think of some objective method of comparison, but all I can offer is seat of the pants gut feeling. I THINK that the car MIGHT steer just a tad straighter and have a little less tendancy to wander. This is an ENTIRELY SUBJECTIVE opinion. If there is a difference, it's very slight. Again, there wasn't any significant problem other than a 50 year old steering design to start with. The rollers are certainly just as good as the balls and significantly cheaper. Paid $100 for the set + shipping of a couple of bucks.
I bought a set of roller bearings and seals several months ago, knowing full well that there was nothing wrong with the bearings I had. They were in good condition, recently cleaned, repacked and adjusted.
Getting to the point, I installed the new bearings last night. In the absence of any specific torque recommendations, I used the time honored tighten 'em up and back off a flat method. Everything felt pretty good, but just to be sure, I verified that I had about .003" end play with a dial indicator.
Road test: I tried to think of some objective method of comparison, but all I can offer is seat of the pants gut feeling. I THINK that the car MIGHT steer just a tad straighter and have a little less tendancy to wander. This is an ENTIRELY SUBJECTIVE opinion. If there is a difference, it's very slight. Again, there wasn't any significant problem other than a 50 year old steering design to start with. The rollers are certainly just as good as the balls and significantly cheaper. Paid $100 for the set + shipping of a couple of bucks.
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