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MG MGA - wheel bearing end play

What is the acceptable number for front wheel bearing end play? I can't find a spec anywhere...

Thanks!
George
George G.

George, what do you mean by end play?
Normally check the play at the rim. Any play here affects the toe in/out as you drive.
Art Pearse

MGA has ball bearings in front, and they are not adjustable. The inner race spacer s exactly the same length as distance between shoulders in the hub that space the outer bearing races. Just assemble it with all the correct parts, and toque it up tight. There is a small amount of internal clearance in ball bearings to give it the correct running clearance. As such, the will be just a tiny bit of wiggle for the wheel.

If the free play es excessive so the wheel wobbles too much, then solution is to replace the worn bearings.

barneymg

you can also buy bearings with different clearance standards. I opted to buy them one grade tighter than standard.
Art Pearse

It's been said that compared to what today's parts houses are selling us, the original bearings were of a tighter tolerance and used deeper grooves, which reduces play and makes them a better design for side loads as seen on cars. These type of bearings are still available, you just have to specify what you want. I can't find my notes at the moment on exactly what they were called.
Steve Simmons

Are MGA front bearings different to MGB ones?
On an MGB the "end float" (free play) is determined by inserting shims between the spacer tube and the outer bearing. Tolerance is 0.002" to 0.004". Measured with a DTI, preferably on a "Dry" hub.
Allan Reeling

The B uses a tapered front wheel bearing setup which requires shims. The A is as Barney states.
Dominic Clancy

I didn't think about the "wheel wobble" check, I was looking for an "end float number" as stated by Allan. Thanks for all comments.

George
George G.

George, in my opinion, there should be just perceptible play at the rim.
Art Pearse

This thread was discussed between 01/08/2018 and 02/08/2018

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