DeTomaso Mailing List: May 99, Message #77

The bearing doesn't wear. The axle frets at the bearing mating surface
due to an improper fit of the axles from the factory. This slowly erodes
the axle making a real loose a fit with the bearing and eventually the
wheel wobbles on the axle. Then everyone blames the bearing because it
is perceived to be the cause of the trouble. If the bearing goes, the
failure will be from lack of lube. I have a much larger ball bearing in
my GT5-S and it is fretting at the axle due to an improper fit. It is
not the bearing size but the fit. Detomaso did it twice and got it wrong
both times. The bearing should be a tight press fit on the axle but it
was sized instead for a slip fit which is suitable for tapered bearings. 
Fred T.

Moseley wrote:
> 
> "Eustaquio, Cal J" wrote:
> 
> > Hi all:
> > Decided to look at the PI webpage under the tech section. I guess I'm a bit
> > confused about what was written regarding the installation of wider tires
> > (i.e. the 10" Campagnolo wheels).  It looks as though one has to modify the
> > wheel bearings to take the large tires. Guess I'm missing something but the
> > bottom line is can one put on the larger wheels on a non-GTS Pantera without
> > running the risk of some damage or accelerated bearing wear?
> 
> My understanding from those I've talked to is that while the bearing upgrades
> (either the double roller factory or Dennis' taper conversion) are beneficial
> and recommended for those with the big tires, it really comes down to how YOU
> drive.  If you want to take advantage of those BIG MEATs, I would recommend an
> upgrade.  If they are only for show, weekend putting (and thats OK too), then
> the upgrade is probably not necessary.
> 
> and congrats on the other thing we talked about, I'll keep my fingers
> crossed!!!  ;-)
> 
> Rick
> #6653