thrust bearings on Kingpins

[WernerVC]

What improvement is to be made by using these thrust bearings ? easier steering effort ?
I found an advertising in an MG magazine. I might get some while I am in the UK.
Werner

[BlownMGB-V8]

We've had discussions on them, consensus seems to be that they should help, not much feedback from users though. Very likely you could find similar or identical thrust bearings and washers through a bearing supply house. But so far, no part numbers.

Jim

[WernerVC]

Jim,
They sell in the UK for 40 pound for the complete set excl. vat of 20 %.
The numbers on the bearings are WS81104. They sell for 29 $ on ebay but they are not exactly the same as the original ones. on the original ones, one of the flat hardened washers has a small lip on the outer OD.
I'll try to post a pic of it next time.
Werner

[BlownMGB-V8]

Good.
I can't see an outside lip being that important unless it acts as a dust seal. But if it does that could be worth the difference. Wonder what the price is from a bearing supplier?

Jim

[WernerVC]

I couldn't find a supplier that has the bearing with the cup or lip on one of the washers.It also doesn't give the overall thickness of the bearing. All the dimensions I could find on the WS 81104 is a thickness of 2.75 mm
Werner

[BlownMGB-V8]

As I recall the cup in the trunion is a good 3/8" deep so I can't see where the cup on the washer would be an issue. But it's been awhile since I looked at one.

Jim

[302GT]

I installed a set of these bearings that I purchased from England along with the shim set. The installation was easy, and by mixing the existing shims with the kit shims it was possible to obtain essentially zero clearance on each side. I followed the instructions to assemble the bearings dry, then grease them in the usual way. Afterwards I was concerned because on one side I saw no grease extrude out from the top housing, it only extruded from the middle seal tube. So, after driving the car for 150 miles I opened up the offending side for inspection and indeed found that no grease had made it past the king pin to the bearing (too tight of a fit of the kingpin in its bushing?). There was no damage to the thrust bearing and I simply hand packed grease in it and put it back together. The fact that the bearing ran dry for 150 miles with no damage makes me think that the bearings are actually quite durable. In any case, once the shims are set, replacing them is only a 15 minute job.

[WernerVC]

Larry,
Thanks for the info.Can't wait to be back home and start with the installation.
Werner

[BlownMGB-V8]

Larry, how did it affect your steering effort?

Jim

[302GT]

There is a noticeable reduction in steering effort. Maybe on the order of 20 to 30%.

For the cost and effort it is worth it.