Headstock Bearings

I have opted to replace the original ball bearings in my headstock with 36 new 1/4" ball bearings. (its a lot easier than the mods suggested earlier).

My question to the forum: Should I be able to "feel" the bearings rolling in the races when I turn the headstock? Or, should turning the headstock be so smooth I can't tell the difference between the 36 ball bearings & a caged bearing?
Stephen

I doubt that you would be able to notice any difference, provided they are correctly greased and not overtightened?

Tapered rollers are the way to go

FWIW, I replaced the loose balls and races on my Featherbed with SKF 30205J2 tapered roller bearings. These will fit ALL commandos too. I find the adjustment to be easier (just crank it down) and the rotation is a lot smmother than the old balls and races.

Jean

Re: Tapered rollers are the way to go

Jeandr said:

and the rotation is a lot smmother than the old balls and races.

Click to expand...

OK Jean, thanks for that bearing that number.

What actually I meant to say in my reply to chasesa about not being able to notice the difference was between a *new* loose ball kit compared with a new roller kit. I certainly would expect to feel a difference between new rollers and the old worn out ball bearings.