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1948 trans main front drive bearing
  • 41truck41truck
    Posts: 83Expert Adviser
    Did the factory front main drive gear ball bearing K2-3 have a dust shield on it facing the rear like the replacement bearing NTN 6207N, as I can't understand how it gets lubrication with the shield in place? I have a parts book and manual but the pictures are poor and there is no mention as to how the front bearing is oiled.Some of the top covers were different in that some had plates welded to them and some had a trough to flow oil to the front. Any help would be great Thanks
  • bob wardbob ward
    Posts: 528Platinum Member
    You can remove the dust shields by levering them out with a screw driver.
  • 41truck41truck
    Posts: 83Expert Adviser
    Is it ok to leave the shield in place, and will enough oil get by the shield to lubricate it as the trans is back together now?
  • bob wardbob ward
    Posts: 528Platinum Member
    I know that from at least the mid eighties Corvette gearboxes and presumably other GM boxes have been using shielded rather than open bearings. The theory is that they get better bearing life by keeping the bearing shielded from whatever crud accumulates in the gearbox oil.



    The shielded bearings are 'lubricated for life' on assembly so theoretically they should not need any further lube, but in a gearbox environment oil will certainly find its way past the lip of the shield and into the bearing.