Radius Arm....Twin Bearings ?

[buckman63]

As an experienced DIY mechanic but a virgin mini owner, a question to experts please.


I,m restoring a high mileage 2001 Cooper Sport 500. Last weekend I removed the offside radius arm looking to replace the bearings this week. Having stripped the parts out I find I have roller bearings at both inner and outer ends of the arm ? According to all the manuals I've got and the kit I bought there should be bearings inner and a bronze bush outer ?? Do you know if this is an upgrade or bodge to avoid the bush reaming ???? Obviously the inner sleeve that should hold the bush is now a bearing holder and therefore too large a diameter for the new bush. Is bearings both ends an issue ? and was the bush just a cost reducing exercise by Rover ??? Can't find any answers on the web.

cheers

Bob

[guru_1071]

two bearings is a cost cutting option as it saves having to line ream the bronze bush after its fitted.

ive never seen a genuine rover mini arm with two bearings, but some recons arms often have it done, i dont think its good practice as the outer bearing is in the direct lie of fire for all the gritty water thrown up by the wheel - not a good treatment for a needle roller!!!

[ace01]

I believe some Mokes (Australian?) were fitted with thie arrangement. But I agree, not a good move.