| c-gor | -- 07-31-2011 @ 1:59 PM |
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On the way home from the ENM in Saratoga Springs NY, traveling with two V8ers, we pulled into a rest stop near Bath NY for a break. On the way in, after slowing down, I heard a thump, thump that could only mean a bad rear wheel bearing. I told my traveling companions of my problem and we exited Route 86 to stop at a gas station. After touching the right rear wheel my worst fears were confirmed. The wheel was HOT. Asking for directions, I was told that Bath NY was about 3 miles down the road. We drove slowly so as not to inflict any more damage. I stopped at a few repair shops before being sent to a large truck stop. Arriving there, I asked if there were any mechanics on duty. After a few laughs one fellow approached me and asked the problem. I told him I blew a rear wheel bearing and could someone offer any support. When asked what car I was driving, I told them a 1953 Ford. The fellow looked at me and said, a 1953 Ford! He then told me that the axle bearing would have to be pressed on and because the time was 3:30 on Friday afternoon, not to expect any help that day. After explaining to him that I carried a spare axle with a bearing he looked at me and said, OK. (after hearing of how many 1949-53 fords experinced axle failures, I always carride the spare axle) I pulled the car in and the folks were suprised at it's condition. To make a long story short, he replaced the axle in less that 30 minutes. Only a suggestion, if you drive your vehicles as we do, be aware of their "weaknesses". Fortunately, my "planning for the worst, hoping for the best", saved us an otherwise long stop. Craig Gorris
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| MG | -- 07-31-2011 @ 2:12 PM |
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"after hearing of how many 1949-53 fords experinced axle failures" c-gor, can you please expand on this statement as I have never heard of this having owned a '52 and '53 Fords for many years.......MG This message was edited by MG on 7-31-11 @ 2:18 PM
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| ford38v8 | -- 07-31-2011 @ 2:33 PM |
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Craig, you got lucky. In my travels, I have never had the right spare part with me although I carry about 30 lbs of parts and another 50 lbs of tools. If you want to be sure to not have a failure, take that part with you and sure enough, something else will fail! Alan
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| c-gor | -- 08-01-2011 @ 5:09 AM |
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MG Hello! The statement "after hearing how many 49-53 fords experienced axle failures" was based upon stories of fellow V8ers who during the drive to or from a National Meet or Cruise had an axle break. I personally know of four people. That is only my experience. As a result, and knowing the difficulties of finding the correct bearing and seal and having it pressed on, I tend to be a bit "anal" about the axles. I am not attempting to be "chicken little" only sharing my experience with fellow members.
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