58-62 Rear axle bearing spacers

[Tom P.]

Over the years, when replacing 58-62 rear axle bearings, I have noticed the SOME cars have a spacer (about .95-.100 thick) installed BETWEEN the bearing and the housing. And some don't. Is there supposed to be a bearing spacer or not? If so, which cars? Some cars? All cars? When some bubbas were pulling the axles for whatever reason, did they fail to return the spacer? Anyone know for sure?

[Gary C.]

Re: 58-62 Rear axle bearing spacers

Tom,

Knew spacers were used for '59 to '62 rear axle between the bearings and the housing, but didn't know the spacers were used in 1958. Interesting since the '57 and '58 axle housings are basically the same.

Screenshots from 1958 & 1961 P&A 30 Parts Books. Also attach is a sketch of axle differences by Roy Braatz from years ago.

Anything beyond '57 is out of my realm. Hope this info helps.

Gary
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Rear Axle Bearing Spacer_Parts 1961 Book List_082814.jpg Rear Axle Bearings_1961 Parts Book List_082814.jpg Rear Axle Bearings_1958 Parts Book List_082814.jpg Axle Shaft Differences.jpg

[Gary C.]

Re: 58-62 Rear axle bearing spacers

Tom,

Rear axle housing bearing depths are: 1957 = 15/16 inch and 21959-62 = 1 inch

That's all the rear axle housing that I have that are empty with no axles installed.

Gary
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