QuestionQUESTION: Howard,
I have a 1973 MGB which I'm in the process of replacing the differential thrust washers. I pulled the half shaft out sufficiently to pull the gears and have returned the differential gears with their new washers. I have not put the pinion gears back in as of yet. When I pulled the left axle out to release the gears the bearing came approximately 1/4 inch out of the housing. I've tapped the axle back in to where it appears to be in the same position as it was originally. This is based on the amount it extends past the gear. My question is: How do I know when the axle is in the correct distance and what do I do about the bearing that still is approximately 1/4 inch out of the housing?
Thanks,
John
ANSWER: Hi John,
We need to get the terminology of the parts down so I know what you are talking about. If you are just replacing the thrust washers (there are only 4) (2 small cup shaped) and (2 larger flat thrust washers)
What I am not understanding is what bearing is out 1/4 inch? The only bearings that need to be removed are the outer axle bearings with the axles. Did you remove the center "Carrier assembly" (US term) "Differential Cage" (UK term)?
The Carrier assembly normally requires the use of a "Spreader" (US term) "Axle Stretcher" (UK term) because there is a "Preload" on the "Carrier Bearings" / "Differential Cage Bearings".
Did you remove the two bearing caps that hold the two large Carrier bearings in place? If so, why? It is not necessary to remove the Carrier assembly to change the thrust washers. You only need to pull both axles and the pin and "Spider Gears" (US term) "Differential Wheels and Pinions" (UK term)
If you removed the bearing caps then the Carrier assembly has probably popped out and now you need a Spreader tool the get it back in do to the preload on the bearings. If you have had the whole unit out and got the bearings and spacers mixed up, you are in deep trouble as that will upset the alignment of the "Ring Gear" to the Pinion / "Crown wheel" to the Pinion.
Did you not have a manual? If not you now need one.
Howard
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Howard,
I now have replaced the four thrust washers. The center carrier is still in place and the differential is reassembled. The bearing that appears to have been extended is the outer axle bearing bearing. I only pulled one of the half axles out approximately 2”. The other half axle wasn't touched. The carrier was not disturbed. I have since reassemble the axle/brake assembly and the bearing plate tighten back up. I have a Haynes and a Bently manual. I also used the Chicagoland MGB Club pictorial as a guide. The link is http://chicagolandmgclub.com/photos/b_clunk/./b_clunk/.
Now my current question would be: As the bearing plate tightened back up, should I have any concern with the wheel (outer axle) bearing?
As always I appreciate your help. Regards.
John
AnswerOK john, I see what you are referring to now. The wheel bearing does not go all the way in flush in the axle housing. A small portion sticks out normally and if you will note, the four bolt retainer with the seal, has a recess to accept that part of the bearing that is sticking out. So everything is normal as far as that goes. I don't know why they designed it that way other then to be sure that the seal is centered and not to depend on the bolts to center it.
Howard
