Adam: Here are a few pics and yes, you would have to cutoff the OEM bearing retainer plate, then install the newer "U" shaped plate. I doubt that you would want to remove the bearing again, so just wrap the bearing with plastic wrap, to protect any filings from getting into the bearing and then grind off the old plate. The plate that I am using came with "The Right Stuff" rear disc conversion kit, it is similiar to the one you where going to get, just that mine has provisions for caliper mounting. You can see how much the bearing protrudes from the housing flange, approx. 1/8" and the 2 shim plates to make up the difference. Hope these photos help, good luck! David note: the 2 shim plates replace the drum backing plate which is approx. 1/8" thick........
I found a pic I took of the original bearing and spacer before I cut them off. The new bearing and spacer pic is in post #10. HUGH difference! Thanks, Adam
the bearing that sticks outside the axle flange is what aligns the Crown Vic. rear disc caliper bracket...
you can see where the oil seal ran on the polished area on the axle shaft, also with the design of OEM bearing retainer, it helps protect most dirt/water from getting to the bearing, dust protector, I think most OEM bearings where opened caged, like pic in #33. With sealed bearings, they are protected........ let us know how your test fitting goes this weekend! Cheers, David
Well... I didn't get to the test fit..... But here is what I did get done! Started soaking the yoke in the parts washer. Drilled a hole and welded a drain plug into the rear. Painted the rear. Scrubbed the yoke, cleaned it and painted it. Removed the leaf springs and shackles. Made a new section of brake line that goes from the hard line, a helper twisted off the line at the fitting, to the rubber line at the rear. Removed the shocks. Painted the traction bars. Ordered brake wheel cylinders, t-bolts, axle bearing retainers and a pinion bearing retainer. Started making new back plate spacers for the rear. Formulated a plan to rebuild the differential. Stood back in amazement at how easy everything seemed to flow today! Grabbed a beer, patted her on the rear and said "Don't worry sweetie, you'll be ready by spring"! Thanks, Adam
Well its been a while since my last post but here are how the axles fit. I also attached 2 pics of the center section after we spent a good amount of time setting pinion depth and backlash. THAT was definitely a learning experience! Waiting for an extra set of hands to help me get it under the Mav so I can set everything up! Cheers! Adam
great job Adam! Looks to be all correct, can see how retainer will keep most of dirt etc., away from bearing. keep us posted on how the rest of your project goes!
