Author Topic: Re: Axle bearing query  (Read 2087 times)

Alex e

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Re: Axle bearing query
« on: May 23, 2020, 06:03:28 »
Having recently replaced the rear wheel bearings on my 230 SL I now have very slight play in the right side bearing. Everything seemed to go back together well so I can`t understand why this is. Anyone else had this problem ? Alex

stickandrudderman

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #1 on: May 23, 2020, 10:50:11 »
As long as it's minimal I'm afraid it's a product of the barrell roller bearing fitted to the right side (assuming the correct bearing has been used).
I did some experimenting a few years back with different bearings to try and eliminate it but without success.

Alex e

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #2 on: May 23, 2020, 11:55:01 »
That's interesting, I was surprised as the original bearing which had been there for decades had no play. Yes I did use the correct bearing despite a certain SL specialist insisting my chassis number should have the same bearings both sides ! The amount of play is similar to what you would find acceptable on a front bearing, but if its not unusual then no problem. Thanks Alex.

mbzse

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #3 on: May 23, 2020, 12:05:12 »
Quote from: Alex e
.../...SL specialist insisting my chassis number should have the same bearings both sides !.../...
Yes, well, the standard ball bearing is ok, but will wear due to not being able to accomodate the angular tension produced when the M-B swing axle extends and compresses.

The barrel roller bearing, designed to accept angular tension, is more expensive than a standard ball bearing.
In the olden days, for everyday use Mercedes cars (like W110 "Finback" etc.) it was considered adequate to use a std. ball bearing.
The barrel roller bearing was specified for the heavier more expensive models only (like 300SE and V8 equipped Mercedes)
/Hans S

Pawel66

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #4 on: May 23, 2020, 16:38:55 »
I may remember it wrongly, but when I was looking for this rear right roller bearing 3-4 years ago, I figured they were two standards of play available. I managed to get the tighter one I think and I think the play was minimum. One I bought from MB was the bigger play standard...

But my memory gets rusty, it is good, but short...
Pawel

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W128 220SE
W121 190SL
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erickmarciano

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #5 on: October 05, 2022, 02:44:46 »
can someone explain why the sedans use the ball bearing on right . should the logic of swing axle be the same for sedans and SL?
I dont get it
thanks
1994 E500 W124
1971 280sl
1989 Porsche 930 coupe
1988 e30 m3
2001 ducati mh900
2006 ps1000
1962 Vespa GS160

Benz Dr.

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #6 on: October 05, 2022, 04:09:40 »
can someone explain why the sedans use the ball bearing on right . should the logic of swing axle be the same for sedans and SL?
I dont get it
thanks

That's because they don't.  Left side uses a ball bearing because it's fixed in one position but the right side uses the barrel roller bearing because it changes alignment as the axle moves.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

rwmastel

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #7 on: October 05, 2022, 20:30:51 »
He was asking Sedan v SL.  According to post above, M-B says heavy Sedans get special bearing and SLs get standard bearing.  So, his question is, shouldn't they all get the special bearing?
Rodd

Did you search the forum before asking?
2017 C43 AMG
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1966 230SL

Benz Dr.

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #8 on: October 06, 2022, 03:44:48 »
190SL's use the special bearing and it's not a heavy car so I don't think weight has anything to do with it. That barrel roller bearing is pretty much standard equipment on all those swing axle cars.

Oh, and I understood the question just as I understand the answer.  :)
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

erickmarciano

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Re: Axle bearing query
« Reply #9 on: October 07, 2022, 21:11:43 »
my question is why the sedans w108 have the ball bearing on both sides but has the same axle as the w113?
1994 E500 W124
1971 280sl
1989 Porsche 930 coupe
1988 e30 m3
2001 ducati mh900
2006 ps1000
1962 Vespa GS160