Re: Wheel Bearings

Posted by Joe on March 26, 1998 at 07:07:21

In Reply to: Wheel Bearings
posted by Jim on March 25, 1998 at 13:15:33

Jim
My experience with a conversion to hydraulic brakes was that the later Ford items were similar in that the stationary part of the bearing (at the wheel end of the trumpet housing) was the same as the Model A but differed in that the later Ford wheel hub was smaller than the Model A.To say it another way - the needles of the roller bearing were smaller in diameter.
The later Ford bearing would fit onto the Model A axle housing but the wheel hub and everything else was different beyond it.
If my memory serves, the hydraulic brake wheel parts that I was converting to was a 1947.
Hope this doesn't confuse you further.
Incidently, although I gathered the parts and prepared everything for a conversion of my Model A to hydraulic brakes, I later lost interest and for a long time the parts just hung around.I later got sick of giving them house room and brought everything to the dump (dumb!)Oh well, that was before the internet and the resources it offers.
Actually, from what I have seen and heard, with woven pads and cast iron drums and everything up to snuff including "centering the shoes" and "equalizing the pull", the original Model A brakes are about as good as you can get.The weak point of the whole system for stopping is actually in the narrow tires.I'm glad I didn't follow through with my original intention to convert the brakes to hydraulic.
I applaud you if you're considering a return to mechanical although I understand if you want to leave it hydraulic.Each have their special merits and shortcomings.
Best regards,
Joe

Follow Ups:
Re: Wheel Bearings Bob Carabbio March 26, 1998 at 12:27:25(0)

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