The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline two piece shaft steady bearing mystery

For several years I've been trying to track down the origin of the bearing and support bracket, the bearing is a New Departure bearing. My problem is the bracket with the rubber is all cracked and not trustworthy. With no part number etc I don't have anything to go on. Maybe someone else has seen this arrangement. I have a 1950 1/2 ton with a 235 4 speed and a GM differential 3.55. ...Glenn (new to photbucket and can't seem to insert a pic, any help on this would be appreciated)

not sure if this link will work to show a pic


http://s465.photobucket.com/user/blanch1953/media/P1010716_zps2kvivjbu.jpg.html

I took a quick look at the 1929-1954 Chevrolet Master Parts list and I could not find anything. 1950 Chevrolet 3100 with a later 235 engine installed, what transmission? IF this is a factory set-up we should be able to find part numbers.

Ronnie

Hi Dusty53, according to the numbers on the block its a 1954 235, with the GM SM420 4 speed, the differential numbers (3707306) make it an automotive application used 55-57 Biscayne and Belair, also 53-62 Corvette. I have seen diagrams and pictures of steady bearings used in bigger trucks but nothing that looks like this, thanks for checking..Glenn

Hey Glen, I have to ask....this is a 1/2 ton truck optioned with an SM420 ,or do you think one of the previous owners did a custom install ? Anyway, you may able to substitute for the carrier bearing and support bracket if you know the outside diameter of the splined shaft that fits inside the carrier bearing.Example - www.classicparts.com , part number 92-905, 1.3780 ID. You'd have to fabricate a "riser" to go from the support bearing housing to the frame mount. Wouldn't be stock, but so what, right? If you can take a picture of the entire driveshaft I can do some more research or if you want you can PM me I'll give you my contact information. Hope this helps ! I know the struggle, but in the end its worth it!

Hi Dusty, well the cab was designed for a 4 speed(with cover etc)and now with the original shaft being looked at by a drive line shop they have told me that they couldn't find out the origins of the steady bearing and bracket. the outside diameter is 1.625 so the bearing you mentioned doesn't work, they are ready to machining a wider mating surface for a new bearing and I would make up a mounting bracket to set up the correct position. I would say thanks for the effort as i'm strongly considering this option so that I can go back to these experts if I have a problem. Thanks again, good luck with any of your projects