KenNC

Was re-packing a set of Normandy Luxe Competition high flange gold label hubs I recently aquired--the type with the NON-removable dust covers like this:

VeloBase.com - Component: Normandy Luxe Competition (gold label)

Was assuming that I'd put in ten 3/16 ball bearings. But when I counted the bearings I took out (which looked fine), I found there were 22 total! Did some looking around to see if others had encountered 11 per side, and found one site that said should be TWELVE per side according to Sutherlands:

Vintage Bicycle Discussion Area

So, I did try twelve each side, and after installing and removing the cones to push the balls into place, I checked and it appeared that there was a half-ball space to spare. Tightened things up and seems smooth. So i think i am good to go, but wanted to double check with the more knowledgeable folks here, because i've been riding a set that I re-packed with ten on each side, and will now need to re-do that set!

juvela

Yes, Sutherlands gives a figure of 12 3/16" balls per side.

Tip: one must be careful when cleaning out the bearing cups not to disturb the dustcaps. While they appear to be integral with the shell they are separate pieces of metal which have been machined over to give that appearance. If popped out they do not press fit back in like dustcaps usually do.

Cones for these have a unique contour and are difficult to find so repacking at regular intervals is wise to get the greatest life from the bearing surfaces.

Your set with the gold labels is the second generation was current about 1968-72. Third generation launched in 1973 and has the red label and red dustcaps.

old's'cool

Whatever the case, I always use as many BBs as will fit without crowding.

KenNC

Thanks! And YUP, I went back into the other front hub, and sure enough, when the cones were out and the BBs left sitting in place, there were two substantial gaps in the balls. Fortunately I hadn't ridden that much. Threw out the previous 20, added some more Phil Wood grease, and put in 24 new. Good to go and won't make that mistake again! PS--Was careful with the caps on all of these, and--while a bit finicky--since the grease hadn't dried, cleaning out with q-tips, etc., went just fine.