Greetings, I am restoring my 1970 GS; 3.64 rear end. I pulled out my axles primarily to clean up the outer surfaces (wheel hub, shaft retainer plate) and convert to rear disc brakes. At this time, I do not plan on rebuilding the rear-diff since 3.64 gears are unavailable (I am on Fabcraft waiting list). I was mildly surprised to find a sealed bearing on only one side. I am assuming someone replaced one bearing prior to my purchase (in 1996). I am looking for recommendations, thoughts, and part number info. 1. Should I just clean up the axles and re-install until I re-build the rear diff? (I'm leaning this way since I'm doing the resto mod just for myself ... plenty of other work to accomplish). Just drive it until something breaks then convert to Chevy 8.5 rear end? or, 2. Should I cut off the bearings etc and replace them ... with what? I'm having much difficulty finding a local shop (central Oregon) that is willing to press off/on the bearings. (probably just going to find a hydraulic press and do it myself) And, what is a good part number for bearings, seals, and the ring? (Timken Set9? A9? Other? I'm guessing based on my caliper measurements) Thanks in advance for any advice. Steve
That is NOT a sealed bearing...THIS is the original GOOD GM NON TAPERED bearings i always talk about.... WISH someone would reproduce them and we would never have leaky seals again. USE those as long as you can before replacing. THEY ARE GREAT! The other is a tapered bearing and likely replaced at one time in the past. BOTH BEARINGS get oiled from the internal oil source. SO make sure your rear is topped off to proper level and keep them oiled well. ALL your parts look dry and not leaking. Clean them with kerosene and blow them out with compressed air re oil and install back on the correct sides. You likely have a race still in the housing where the tapered bearing was so unless you take that out just stick them back in the correct sides and your good. Spend your money else where until these start to leak .... Jim JD Race
Thanks! Yes, the second picture of axle tube has the race for the tapered bearing. I appreciate your comments greatly
