Rear axle bearing question

[johnscf]

Had a rumbling noise from left rear wheel. Pulled the axle and the bearing is bad. Never done this before so how do i go about replacing the bearing? What’s the best way to take the bearing off and where do i get a replacement bearing. I plan to do both sides while i’ve Got the car out of commission. Any advise appreciated.

[Solex68]

I want to know too. Want to replace my bearings.

[Toptech360]

You need a press. I wouldn't recommend this particular job to a novice...unless being apprenticed.

There are several write-ups with photos within the forum. YouTube videos can be helpful too. Alot of at home mechanics like to pull the axles themselfs and then take the axle assemblies to a shop for the press work and actual bearing replacement. It's a good way to get to know how stuff works without investing a bunch of time and money into tools and equipment. All depends on what you want to do I suppose.

[ted heaton]

Here is what you need.
https://www.datsunparts.com/1573

Some axle rebuild tips.
Do both sides.
Use the new sealed bearings to reduce the common problem of bearing failure due to lack of grease in the original open bearings.
Request the shop PRESSES off the bearing collars. Cutting/Torching is quick but have seen damaged axles when not done carefully.
DO replace/reuse the most likely ruined very thin (3 mm?) metal bearing shims. You may have to buy thin sheets and cut your own.
These do serve a purpose as the bearing seat is cut so the bearing sits slightly proud.The shims prevent excess pressure on the bearing
"While your in there" Check brake lines/hoses, slave cylinders, brake shoes and replace as needed. Remove, clean and lube the brake shoe adjuster.

Ted

[johnscf]

thanks for the info. I plan to take it to a machine shop and get them pressed off and the new ones put on with new collar, inner seal and grease catcher plate. How do I know how much shim material to use? When I took my axle out the shim material was peeling away and it looks like there were several layers.

[Toptech360]

Don't confuse the metal shim stock for the paper gasket.
Shims are nla so reuse or make new. For what it's worth my car had no shims when I did my bearings last year. The rear axle assembly on my car is not the original axle so I would suspect at some point it did have shims. I ended up putting it together without. Time will tell if problems arise from that decision.

[Linda]

Always helpful to see what past experience and discussions have been:
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=22123&start=15
Linda

[Solex68]

I have all the parts including the shims.

[johnscf]

where did you find the shims?

[Solex68]

I bought them when they were available. I have to count and see how many I have.

[johnscf]

let me know if you've got enough to spare some if not I'll go the make your own route.

[datsunrides]

The shims are to set end play. There should be no preload on the bearings. I don’t have access to specs but usually there is .008 or so of end play. Ideally you need a dial gauge to set this, but as long as the axle will slide in the housing just a wee bit, is should be ok.

[ted heaton]

The shims are to set end play. There should be no preload on the bearings. I don’t have access to specs but usually there is .008 or so of end play. Ideally you need a dial gauge to set this, but as long as the axle will slide in the housing just a wee bit, is should be ok.

DAM, I like old school mechanics. " a wee bit", Is that half a "scootch", 1/4 of a "tad"?


Ted

[datsunrides]

Ted, there is another common mechanic term for this, but I didn’t want to disrespect our female members.

[RCMike]

Ted, there is another common mechanic term for this, but I didn’t want to disrespect our female members.

Hahahahaha