Rear Differential bearings

[Lin]

I am going to have my Lempert 3.55 gears installed in the rear differential housing next week. Should I replace the bearings or not? They appear to be in good shape, but obviously now would be the optimal time to replace them. I have heard "some" say that these bearings will last a life time because they are so well lubricated. I would normally just replace them. My hesitancy in replacing them is that in so many cases, new parts don't seem to be as good as the old. Don't know if that is true for bearings or not? Any thoughts on how to proceed?

Lin
1960 BT7 in restoration
1959 Bugeye

 

[Dave Russell]

Hi Lin,
It depends on the condition of the old bearings. When thoroughly cleaned & dried, you can tell by feel & appearance if they are in good condition. They likely would last a very long tine if not damaged in the removal process. OTOH, new high quality bearings are as good or likely better than the originals, though expensive.

Most of the success of the project will depend on the skill, patience, & judgement of the person who installs the new gears.
D

 

[Keoke]

Well Lin, you can always take the bearings to a bearing supply store and have them matched up with current top of the line bearings. SKF is good as are most of the Japanese produced bearings.--Fwiw--Keoke