456 front wheel bearings | FerrariChat

456 front wheel bearings

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by jcurtis, Aug 15, 2011.

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  1. jcurtis

    jcurtis Rookie

    Apr 14, 2005
    31
    Laguna Beach, Ca
    Full Name:
    Jack Curtis
    Can front wheel bearing assemblies on a 456 GT be repaired or is it necessary to purchase a new assembly?
     
  2. tbakowsky

    tbakowsky F1 World Champ
    Consultant Professional Ferrari Technician

    Sep 18, 2002
    19,960
    The Cold North
    Full Name:
    Tom
    Go new..don't mess with a part of the car which has serious saftey implications
     
  3. 166&456

    166&456 Formula 3

    Jul 13, 2010
    1,723
    Amsterdam
    As mentioned this is a safety item. Of course it might be possible to fix the unit with new bearings but you *really* need to know what you're doing. I'm sure you’re aware that these units are normally sold as a whole, a bearing with housing and a hub. They're most likely press-fit and not that easy to take apart; also it is probable that the bearings in there are not available separately, many bearings these days are made to specification.
    Personally, I would investigate two possible other routes first if I had your problem. First, there are breakers that sell second hand parts for Ferraris, look at ebay or google. Sure, a used front wheel bearing is not as good as new, but so aren't your rear wheel bearings, are they? This will probably save you a bundle since you’re in the US. Be sure to get one from a non-crashed car.
    Second, there are some cars of the same era that use the same hubsize - the Lancia Kappa, Alfa 166 and some Fords and Volvos come to mind. It is very well possible that one of these models has identical bearings, but you might find yourself spending money on bearings that won't fit your vehicle; and even if the exterior is the same some uncertaintly of possible differences in inner construction will remain.
     

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