Muncie Thrust Bearing Sleeve

[Roger G.]

I see a bit of wear on the sleeve where the thrust bearing slides.
The wear is on one side. I can feel it but can't measure without calipers.
Thoughts?

Included a photo of the backside.
Looked OK to me.

[Joe L.]

Re: Muncie Thrust Bearing Sleeve

I see a bit of wear on the sleeve where the thrust bearing slides.
The wear is on one side. I can feel it but can't measure without calipers.
Thoughts?

Included a photo of the backside.
Looked OK to me.

Roger-----


The part you are referring to is called the front bearing RETAINER. From what I can see, it looks like it's OK. However, if there's any grooving or roughness on the outside surface of the "snout" section, I'd replace it. The part was recently GM-discontinued but it's easily available in the aftermarket and not too expensive.

By the way, this was one of the very last Muncie parts available from GM but it's now "among the departed".

[Gary R.]

Re: Muncie Thrust Bearing Sleeve

Roger..........As Joe mentioned, check the OD on the retainer you may be able to polish it in a lathe. Same with the bevel on the inside if it's not gouged. I just rebuilt a 66 Muncie last week and replaced the retainer. The aftermarket retainers have a thicker base then the originals but should work ok if you need one.