Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

[Ray C.]

I am in the process of rebuilding the rear axle system, including the differential, for a 1961 positraction project. I have checked the archives and there are numerous references to rear wheel bearings. The bearings are Hyatt 1542 WA 865 and I believe these to be originals. I have never driven this car and have no reference to the condition (sounds) of the roller bearings. The seals and bearings look to be in very good condition. Is there a method to determine if the bearings need to be replaced? If the odometer is correct, the bearings have 75,000 miles on them.

Thanks for any information!

Ray

[Gary C.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Ray, there also should be a .1 shim between the bearing and the axle housing. Was there? Gary....

[Joe T.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Hi Ray
First; Axle bearings generally make some noise or have a rough feel to them if they are failing. Some experience is helpful in determing those symptoms.
Second; If you're this deep into that differential, you might be well advised to just replace them unless tearing that thing multiple times out has some hobby attraction for you.
Not a very definitive, I know, but I would replace them jsu so I didn't have to seem them again.
75,000 miles doesn't, in itself, madate replacement
Regards...joe

[Ray C.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Ray, there also should be a .1 shim between the bearing and the axle housing. Was there? Gary....

Hi! Gary

There is a spacer, or what I believe to be a spacer just to the left of the bearing in the picture. I do not have a micrometer, so I can not measure thickness.

Thanks! for the information Joe

Ray

[Dennis A.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Ray...
I agree with Joe, While you have everything apart, best to replace them and have peace of mind. Must say; a 1961 with only 75,000 miles is a Jewel.

[Gary C.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Ray, make sure your new bearings are the same width as the old ones. You evidentally have the original width bearings since there's a .1 spacer. I vote for replacing them since you have them out. If you can't find bearings, might as Duke where to get them or try Old Car Bearings. JMTCW, Gary....

[Joe L.]

Re: Rear Wheel Bearings 1961

Ray-----


The rear wheel bearings are available under BCA #RW607NR. They're expensive, though----close to 100 bucks, each.