Interior: Help with Bearing Retainer on Front Seats

[Dougie]

I am rebuilding the split bench front seats on my 62 Lark and when I took the backs off, a ball bearing fell out of a worn retainer. The ball bearing is spring-loded in a retainer that goes into a 3/8" dia hole in the hinge part of the seat frame. The one on the other side was missing altogether. I found the item in the SI catalog (Part # 1355869) but just got a call from them saying it is out of stock and will not be available. I assume someone got the last NOS ones before me. It allows smooth movement of the seat back and gently locks the seat back into place.

I did an internet search looking for something like it but have drawn a blank. Anyone else have this same problem and if so what did you use as a substitute? I was thinking maybe I could fit a nylon glide in there that will allow smooth movement but obviously it wont lock it in place. Any help or thoughts will be appreciated. Thanks.

[Chucks Stude]

Call Bob Helm, he has a large stash of parts. 214-364-9740. Also, Barry Hackney in Houston has several Larks he is parting out. Don't have his number offhand.

[stude1964]

Dougie
Can you post a pic of the part you need? Do you know the part #? I've parted Larks with both split bench and ind. recliners.
Rob in PA.

[Dougie]

Thanks for the suggestions. I will call Bob Helm. The part number is in my initial post. The retainer is brass and is soft. The one I had in my seat that the bearing fell out of was worn and I pretty much ruined the retainer pulling it out of the frame because it's soft metal. one out of a parted car would need to be in good condition. Thanks for the help.

[rkapteyn]

When you need a part the best way is to type Studebaker 1355869 into you browser and you will find that KG works lists these.
Robert Kapteyn

[Dougie]

When you need a part the best way is to type Studebaker 1355869 into you browser and you will find that KG works lists these.
Robert Kapteyn

Thanks for the tip on KG Works. I wasn't aware of these folks. They had the item number listed and showed some in stock. I sent them an emial and am waiting to hear from them. Thanks again.