Kevlar pilot bushings

[Jim Caughlin]

Anyone have experience with these? Obviously, the bronze bushings don't last. I currently run the needle bearing style but they have somewhat limited life as well. Just curious if the kevlar bushing is the answer. I'd like to hear if anyone has actual experience with these, not just something that you read in a magazine.

Jim Caughlin
SS 6019

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by Jim Caughlin

Anyone have experience with these? Obviously, the bronze bushings don't last. I currently run the needle bearing style but they have somewhat limited life as well. Just curious if the kevlar bushing is the answer. I'd like to hear if anyone has actual experience with these, not just something that you read in a magazine.

Jim Caughlin
SS 6019

Jim, if you do a search, a lot of people have suffered failures with the so called "Kevlar" pilot bushing.

Since I am familiar with the material, I did an internet search and what they are calling "Kevlar" is actually a Nylon bushing and the reason why they do not last. So in a nutshell, I believe they are selling a Nylon product by giving it a flashy name.

Kevlar's properties are not conducive for such application. Delrin or Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) materials would be.

[FED 387]

GM had roller bearings for the 6.2 diesel that would interchange with a "stock" bronze Chevy bearing- not sure what you have been using but worth a look-- they would last a season or more at high rpms too with no difficulty--- machining one from delryn or other products should not be a problem for a good machinist you only need to get a source for some material to make the bushings---
FED 387

[FED 387]

#14061685 is the GM part number for that bearing about $11-14 dollars--FED 387

[Jim Caughlin]

Didn't think about PEEK, we use it at work and it works very well as a wear surface, good idea. I currently use a GM size needle bearing unit, they last for a full season but do wear out. I had one come apart once and it was a royal pain to remove. Maybe it is best to just accept that they wear out on a yearly basis and need to be replaced. Just thinking about better ideas.

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by Jim Caughlin

Didn't think about PEEK, we use it at work and it works very well as a wear surface, good idea. I currently use a GM size needle bearing unit, they last for a full season but do wear out. I had one come apart once and it was a royal pain to remove. Maybe it is best to just accept that they wear out on a yearly basis and need to be replaced. Just thinking about better ideas.

PEEK will take the abuse and loads better than Delrin or Nylon.