TR2/3/3A Available bushes

[CJD]

I ran into this problem on the last restoration, and it still seems to be an issue. The bushings supplied by the big 3 are larger than my worn out bushings. Specifically:

I ordered 2 bronze bushings for the starter and one for the generator rear plate from Moss. When they came, all 3 have .003" MORE clearance out of the box than the ones in the car with over 100,000 miles. What's with that?

I will try to find local replacements, but has anyone else run into this and found a solution?

 

[number6]

Hi John, I had a similar problem rebuilding starter on my Rover 2000. On test fitting bushes before assembly, they had a lot of slop.
After pressing them into the end covers they snugged up a bit. I don't know how similar your starter is but that may be the case with your as well. Later I talked to an old british car man who told me when he ran into this problem he would knurl the inside of the bushings to displace material for a tighter fit. Never tried it myself as it seemed like a voodo medicine fix. Would be interested in your fix.
Tom S

 

[CJD]

Thanks, Tom. I agree with you concerning the knurling...it is an old school way to extend a worn bushing. For a rebuild, though, the bushing should fit well without it. I will try to source the bushings at a local bearing supply. They used to be great,but lately they don't see to have a full range of bearings. I'm sure it's another business being put out by modern mail order and Chinese parts.

 

[number6]

Try Leyland British in Kennebunk Me. He is a good source for OEM stuff. May have original lucas bushings in stock.
Tom S.
He has Website

 

[CJD]

Thanks for the tip!

 

[sp53]

As crazy as this sounds, I went to Lowes and bought one out of their bin and put it in with Loctite. It is still in there and working. I think the shaft was a common size, but I did need the Loctite because it was just snug but not tight.