1984 Schwinn Traveler BB bearings

[mongo44]

I need to know what size of bearings i need to get. I have a 1984 Schwinn traveler 12 speed. The chain rings have about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of play in them. And when I pedal the chain rubs on the front derailuer. Thanks in advance for all of your help.

[bobtravers]

1/4 usually, 11 ball bearings on each side, total 22 ball bearings...

Is that a adjustable cup-and-cone bearing or a cartridge one?

[mongo44]

Being as old as it is I would think cup and cone. Got to wait for my neighbor to get home since he has the tools to take the crank arms off.

[nfmisso]

with that much play in the system - the cups and axle may be shot as well; in which case you have to decide between replacing with similar:
http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-Bottom-Bracket-1-37-English/dp/B0010VZFSK/
http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-Bottom-Bracket-Axle-Type/dp/B000BMT33C/
making sure to get the correct axle length !!!

or with a cartridge:
http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-Square-Bottom-Bracket-68x113mm/dp/B005DTIKQE/
again making sure to get the correct axle length

The advantage of the cup and cone is that it is easy to rebuild, and inexpensive - and if it is re-greased regularily (say every 5K miles) and the play kept to a minimum - it will last may life times.

The advantage of the cartridge is that it is not serviceable, when it wears out, you replace it. Very quick.