bearings

[zeke57]

Finally got the rear axles out now I am wondering about the bearings. I cleaned them up and to me they look good but I am no expert. They had grease in them but a few of the needles have some minor surface imperfections that I can barely feel and the same with the race. So is a little bit of wear acceptable or no?

[Jeff_Lee]

It depends what and how you are going to use the Jeep. I've seen some really nasty bearings, that weren't even making noise.
If its a light to medium duty local hauler and fun machine, I would repack them in proper modern wheel bearing lube, replace the inner oil seal while its all open, and go have some fun. Spend that money on something more urgent...

If its going to run hard, flat haul behind a high speed vehicle or do a lot of tuff back-country, invest in new bearings and races.

IMHO, Jeff
_________________
1951 M38 restoration project - Flightline Jeep MC 23923 DoD 6-51
1954 M-100 Trailer USMC Dunbar Kapple s/n M-750759 DoD 1-54
1947 Willys CJ2A - Harvest Green
1954 Ford F-100 Parts chaser - blueprinted Y-Block
Southeast Florida

[zeke57]

Good point Jeff about thinking how it is going to be used. For my intentions I think I will be fine. As a matter of fact the inner seals are in and the bearings are back in place.

[billybob]

Just my opinion but in the restoration of my M-38, if I had any doubt what so ever I replaced the part with the best part I could find and afford. That way I won't be wondering if it's going to fail me on down the road any time soon. Of course you can get new parts that are faulty no matter who makes them.
_________________
1952 M-38 # 53623 - 2-52. M 416 trailer.

[4x4M38]

Bearings and seals, brake shoes, etc., are some of the least expensive things we can put in these old vehicles. If it was me I would replace them.
Just my two cents though.
_________________
Brian
1950 M38
MC11481
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules.php?set_albumName=album372&op=modload&name=gallery&file=index&include=view_album.php