Date:         Mon, 21 Nov 2022 10:23:22 -0500
Reply-To:     Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Sliding door bearing
Comments: To: Dan N <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <CAFdLW6m-zUJw1fA-PJ3a3DXGY1W3XLRk6DQzM8ta+Nu2+ua5WA@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

Hi Dan,
        I hope you were successful in finding the bearing. 

        I am noticing the wear starting on the lower track of my sliding door where that bearing rolls.  I actually try to leave my door open if I’m going to be in and out so that I minimize the constant movement.   

        The most important thing I’ve learned is to keep all the door surfaces clean and just a thin clean lubricant.  And then clean again after every adventure.  

Eric 


> On Nov 20, 2022, at 12:11 AM, Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> hi all,
> 
> I recently replaced the bearings on the sliding door (a 1988 tintop van).
> The lower bearing (vertical) was worn to the nub, it was replaced 3 years
> ago with a plastic/Derin bearing. On my other van it was replaced with an
> aluminum one 12 years ago and is still working fine.
> 
> I'd think the plastic/Derin one is not as good as the OEM aluminum one
> *(tempted
> to say it's bad).*
> 
> How about you? Any experience to share?
> I am looking for a couple of aluminum ones... maybe Ken Wilford can help...
> 
> (The vertical shiny one on the left of the picture)
> https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=2345938
> 
> thanks,
> 
> dan