Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

I recently ran into a problem while performing routine maintenance on my low mileage 1930 Deluxe Coupe. While cleaning and repacking the front wheel bearings, I noticed the outer left wheel bearing race was marginal in condition. To avoid future problems, I felt it was best to replace the original race with a new one. The only U.S made race available that I could find is Timken. The original race is Made by Hoover with a Ford part number of "A-1217 stamped on the back side.
To remove the original race, I had to use a hammer and a long drift, carefully tapping out the race. When I inserted the new race, I used a socket that was the same O.D. and a hammer to tap the new race into place. The new race fell into place without much effort. I was actually able to remove the race by hand. In my opinion this is too loose. I measured the O.D. of the new race and found it to be 1.943. The old race was 1.947. Has anybody else had this problem? I have tried to locate a new Hoover Race and all attempts have been met with negative results. Does anybody on Ford Barn have an extra race made by Hoover you would be willing to sell? Preferably an NOS one. I'm out of options and would like to drive my car!!! Any help or leads appreciated.

Thank you,

Scott

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

Scott,
Sorry don't have what your seek.
However, some input/advice: If left outer race is questionable..as you state, I would think that the left outer bearing which ran on that race is also questionable. Replace bearing and race with matched set bought from timken/whoever. I would take the old bearing/race to a bearing specialty store (I'm lucky enough to have one nearby) and have them measure the Hoover and see if they can go thru their books/stock and match it. Anyway, to put an old bearing onto a new race is , at best, a questionable practice. You are correct in being wary of the loose race...danger !!

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

I don't know about the Hoover brand, but Berts sells oversize bearing races. You could call 800-321-1931 and talk to Steve or Phil and find out the size of the races that they handle and what they recommend. I usually take a drift punch and scar or ruff up the area all the way around where the race fits. this will usually give a tight fit.

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

You could use a center punch and prick the hub a dozen or so times.. The cup will then fit tight and center itself.. This was a common problem and fix by Ford in the 50's..

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

You can also use Loctite Retaining Compound (used to be - Sleeve Retainer). It also works well where the race has spun. I believe it will make up to .010". Read the instructions, but I usually put the race into hub with the Sleeve Retainer, assemble with your packed bearings and put into service right away.

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

I looked up the A-1217 race in my bearing interchange book and
a couple of bearing catalogs and they show the OD as 1.938. Couldn't
find anything 1.943 or 1.947.

Bob

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

Thank you all for your help. It is much appreciated.

Scott

Re: Front Outer Wheel Bearing Race Question
 

I had a race that broke and had to replace it. The new race was loose and had to take it to a person who put shim stock to make it fit. fit like a glove after that.