RE: [Chevelle-List] Outboard axle bearing going out?

[John Nasta]

I'm not sure about Chevys but I know that on Oldsmobiles up to 1968 the seal is inboard of the bearing and the bearing is a sealed (permanently lubricated) ball bearing. Beginning 1969 they moved the seal outboard of the bearing and used tapered roller bearings, which were lubed by the gear oil in the rear. Just something to keep in mind. I don’t think you mentioned the year of your car, but if you need a sealed ball bearing, make sure you get the right thing. Some parts stores will tell you that a tapered roller bearing will fit, and they're right, it will fit, but it will also fail in short order because it is not getting lubricated.   John