As far as the shifter linkage, brings back memories. We used to stop on a regular basis to re-align the shift linkage on my 52, 49 and 54. Never did figure out the problem but we were kids and as long as we could go down the road, no sweat. I've always done the wheel bearings as taught by an old mechanic. Take them out, clean them up and check them good. Any wear, replace them both. Pack them with wheel bearing greese, reassemble and tighten while rotatating the wheel. When she starts to drag, back off a quarter turn or so and re pin the castelated nut. Works for me.
