Going to replace the rear axle bearings in my 1956 Vette. Looks like they are different from 1957-? Wonder why, thought all the drop out rears were the same. Did the '56 full size also differ?
FWIW the axle retainers plates are different also. I have a bunch of axles I believe are 55-56 and the retainer plate is shaped like a cup that goes over the bearing and the 57 style have a more flat retainer plate. Pat
Thanks guys, I'll get them ordered. The book lists a special puller, can I get the old bearings off in a press with a clam shell behind the retainer plate?
It's tough but people have done it. Be careful it may deform the retainer plate. If you cut off the locking ring first it will make it easier. Pat
As other guys said 55 and 56 were smaller. We always used the torch to take them off and a piece of pipe to bang them on. It has been over 20 years since I did one. But we did lots before that.
yup, back in my old service station days we would lay the axle on its side with the bearing on something solid, put a rag over the bearing (to keep flying shrapnel from getting ya) and hit the outer race with a hammer, this will break the race, then we would drive the inner off with an air chisel (careful not to slip off the race and gouge the axle). then put the new one on with a pipe... did hundreds of them this way....
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