rear wheel bearing question

[1226 bravo]

Is it practical or even possible on a '62 corvair to regrease the rear wheel bearings by drilling the rivets out and splitting the flanges just a little to add grease? Mine seem to be quiet and smooth, but I've read the warnings. I have owned this car for 1 year and have no idea if or when they have been replaced. I really hate to spend that much on new bearings if its not necessary. The car is only driven occasionally.
Thanks for input.

[bbodie52]

Welcome to the Corvair Forum!

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Corvair Forum viewtopic.php?f=225&t=6007

[1226 bravo]

Thanks a bunch...that's exactly what I needed.

[k9ulan]

I just started to get some occasional squeaks from my rear area. I assume its bearings. I know I need to take them apart and look, but I wonder if anyone can tell me if when they squeak are they shot , or is there a possibility that they may still be save by greasing them..any Ideas? thanks

[bbodie52]

You could take them apart and examine the bearings and races for signs of scoring or physical damage. But when they start squeaking you can assume metal to metal contact with no lubricant, and the weight of the car pressing the bearing components together. Clark's Corvair Parts has described the EM Corvair axle bearings as "probably the most dangerous part of the whole car" (see below). Clark's has been supporting Corvairs since 1973 and has decades of experience. I would defer to their expertise and advice. The axle bearings are not that easy to disassemble and overhaul, so they often are neglected for decades. If you have determined that one axle bearing is squeaking and likely on its way out, you should assume that both sides need attention. I would suggest 'taking the plunge" and performing a complete overhaul of both axles, and take care of both universal joints at the same time.


http://www.corvair.com/user-cgi/catalog ... graygo.y=0

[DAVECS1]

http://corvaircenter.com/phorum/read.php?1,697977" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

This is what I did and I have about 5300 miles on them now and they are smooth as silk.