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MG TD TF 1500 - tapered bearing conversion part 2

If the link doesn't work...cut and paste


https://youtu.be/FmvC3BCf1cA


again all comments welcome
L E D LaVerne

Why are you oiling the bearings rather than greasing? To better sense the tightness of the shims?

Do you really need the spacer wit tapered bearings?

Jim B.
JA Benjamin

Shimming is easiest done with clean, dry bearings. Once shimming is complete, pack well with grease.

The spacer is critical not only for spindle strength, but to allow the end float of the bearings to be set precisely. Set to approximately 2-3 thou dry. If you don't have a dial indicator to measure with, rock the drum and feel carefully. You should be able to detect a very small amount of "play" in the bearing. If you can barely detect it (and don't confuse it with play in the kingpin or steering) then you're about right. You have to leave some play to allow for expansion when the bearings heat up. Any load beyond zero end float is asking for a seized bearing so take the time to make sure they aren't too tight!
Steve Simmons

I use light oil..Steve does it dry... your choice. I consider the bearing spacer a must. I'll grease the bearings after I have the correct end float. Finishing up part 3 now.
L E D LaVerne

If you're concerned with corrosion, don't worry. The bearings come with a coating on them already to prevent this. Oiling them further won't hurt anything, but is unnecessary. The less they have on them, the easier it will be to do the job by feel, and the more accurately you can do it with a dial indicator (preferred method). I'd use a very light oil if going that route.

John Twist also has a you tube video on how the spacers and shims work on MGB, which is the same application as tapered bearings on a T-Type. It isn't comprehensive but covers the basics. Worth a watch for those who have never used them.
Steve Simmons

Part 3 finished

https://youtu.be/Nn0FYfnRBtc
L E D LaVerne

tapered bearing conversion part 2

https://youtu.be/FmvC3BCf1cA
efh Haskell

Why change and what is the benefit? Just wondering. George
George Butz

Much stronger bearings and ease of servicing. As in when is the last time you removed the bearings to repack them?
L E D LaVerne

Long time ago, that's why I installed sealed bearings. Bud
Bud Krueger

It seems to me that as long as the existing bearings are in good order, there is no need to change them. However if you have any doubts at all, then conversion to tapered rollers makes a lot of sense for the reasons given above. In addition, you might want to ponder the quality of replacement ball bearings. When I looked for these I was astonished at how inexpensive they were - and from the mainstream suppliers too. But then, when you see the markings and the source, you are less surprised. Look for a taper roller bearing and it will probably be Timken - I know which I prefer.
Dave H
Dave Hill

OK, conversion makes sense if you are driving hard and a lot on Colorado twisty mountain roads, and pulling drums would be easier. My sealed ball bearings will likely last longer than I will driving on our Florida flat and straight roads! George
George Butz

I think that is the correct approach, and I am in a similar situation. However in the unlikely event that they have to be replaced then its barely more difficult to fit taper roller bearings, which is what I would do.
Dave H.
Dave Hill

This thread was discussed between 11/11/2017 and 15/11/2017

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