Replace No. 8?
 

I hear some people inspect and reuse the No. 8 nose bearing. Is this a normal practice, or not recommended? I'm about to inspect mine. It is from a 1978 911SC and I hope to reuse it unless that is just a plain bad idea. In Wayne's book in the list of replacement parts, I don't remember seeing it specifically mentioned unless he meant it included with the main bearings. Just looking for some clarification!

Thanks,

Brian

This is up to you. Some will tell you to replace everything and others will say to reuse many things. I take each part as it is and inspect it for wear and damage. If the part looks ok and is within wear limits then I reuse it.

The number 8 main bearing gets little load. It's main purpose is to hold the front main seal and to hold the O-ring that seals the front of the case. It also has an important role supplying oil pressure to the crankshaft. You need to evaluate the sealing surfaces and the inside where the oil has to get to the crankshaft. If the bearing is worn (loose fit on end of crank) then it should probably be replaced.

-Andy

Thanks Andy. I'll inspect it carefully and make a decision.

Crap, I took a chunk out of this white gasket piece thinking it would be replaced but now I suspect it is an integral part of the bearing. Is that so? Pic taken before chunk was taken out. Also, that springy thing on the far left popped out of the white gasket. Am I buying a new one now?

Also, the bearing fits very nicely on the lubed up crank shaft. Only the tiniest bit of play induced by wiggling it. Is that normal, or is it worn if it can be nudged even the slightest? Not that this matters if the white gasket is permanently destoyed!http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130910915.jpg

Here's a pic of the damage. I suck.http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130911344.jpg

Do not worry... I think that is the oil seal. It is usually replaced and comes with the gasket kit along with the outer o-ring. Lou

That's good news, but this seal is quite stubborn then. Any tips on removing it without damaging the bearing surfaces?