I need your opinion regarding replacing the old babbitt type driveshaft bushing. I recently inspected the driveshaft in my 14 Touring and found that the bushing is the original babbitt type and the clearance is .004 or .005. The surface seems to indicate some wear lines around the inside dia. however it is not egg shaped. The MTFCA Book "The Model T Ford Front and Rear Axles" by Glen Chaffin states that you should replace the Babbitt Bearing with a Bronze Type. I would appreciate your opinion as I would like to know if there is an advantage using the Babbitt vs. Bronze??
Thanks,
John
The babbitt drive shaft bushing is fine to use, the babbitt thrust bearings in the axle are not safe to use and should be replaced with a bronze type.
As long as the bushing is not badly worn or damaged, use it. Is the bushing flange worn where the drive shaft can move back and forth in the tube or are you going to use a fun projects pinion bearing?
Stephen