Enquiring minds want to know if a sealed, permanently lubed rear axle bearing for our 1200s exists. It's a bit of a PITA to tear into the rear end every 30k miles to lube the OEM bearings, so a permanently lubed bearing would be a nice upgrade.

great question

It is a standard ball bearing
* 62x30x16 (type 115 1970-1972)
or
* 72x30x19 (type 114 1973)
Axle Bearing tech article

For the late 1200 these are "sealed". Does that mean permanently lubed?

NTN bearing

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If i recall correctly the orginal ball bearing isn't sealed on either side, so the 90W from the diff eventually washes away the packed grease. i figure the bearing wears slightly, then the seal (in the housing) is slightly compromised and so lube gradually mixes into the bearing

Groove is where the housing seal rides






Grease packing




These replacements for the small bearings (1970-1972) are sealed on one side. The other side goes up against the brake backing plate so that's good - assuming they are installed with the seal facing in. They still gotta be packed but i reckon the grease will stay put for longer

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