I Had Better Luck With This Last Time

The 309 has been moved over the pit for inspection, and I would like to take this opportunity to replace three motor bearings.  One was done several months ago, when the car was still in the barn.  It ought to be easier over the pit, but you never know.

Here are some progress photos taken under the car.  We start by removing the motor cap on the gear side of motor #2.  You can see where a small jack has been placed to take the weight off the bearing.

Then the three bolts holding the motor cap in place can be loosened.  The cap is carefully pulled out and placed on wood blocks, then slid out of the way to the left.  Be careful not to knock it over, it might land on your foot.  When it's removed, we see the half of the bearing that has the opening for lubrication.  That's where the waste bundles press against the axle and keep it wet.

Then, the other old bearing half can be removed, and we see the axle.  It doesn't appear to have any scoring or uneven wear, so that's good.

The problem now, however, is that there's not quite enough room between the motor frame and the inside surface of the wheel to fit the new bearing in place.  That's because the old bearings were all very worn, allowing too much slack action for the motor, side to side.

I tried to move the motor frame somewhat to the left, but so far without success.  I'm hoping the shop guys can rig up something better, or maybe just put more muscle into it.

Of  course, several other weekday guys were hard at work, but I didn't take time to photograph them.  You just have to be there in person.