The rear bearings don't use a crush sleeve. The end play setting of .001"-.008", preferrably .001-.002", is attained by using spacers and a bearing race sleeve that doesn't crush down. The spacers come in different thickness to adjust the end play. To do this you need a setup tool to install the new bearings and spacers onto to correctly torque and measure endplay. You could use an old spindle that is polished to give a slip fit, buy the tool from a vendor, or have a machine shop make one once you give them the bearing ID. If you don't use one of these, the chances of correctly fitting the bearings the first time are slim at best. You then would have to use a puller to remove the bearings to reshim and chance wrecking them in the process. You can get the bearings from any vette shop for under $100 total for both sides. I bought mine from Bair's.
The T arm bushings also use a special tool to install. Some places sell the tool with the bushings, Vette Brakes I think is one. I made a flare tool out of a big Allen bolt and 5/8" steel plate, it worked fine. Another tool you'll see is the hammer flare tool. I haven't used one of these so someone else will have to comment on it. The parking brake kits are all over the place for about $50,they don't come with the shoes or cables though.
$550 sounds low for the work involved are they experienced in this type of work or a general garage?
Good Luck
Gary


[Modified by gtr1999, 10:01 PM 12/6/2001]

 

no crush sleeve in rear wheel bearings,there is a spacer in there however.i rebuilt my t-arms,bearings myself. i used poly bushings from vette brakes about $60. re-used the emergency brake pads,springs,etc.everything was in good shape.you'll need a spacer/shim kit that will do both wheels. 2 sets of bearings & races,seals,2 dust deflector shields,2 castle nuts for the axles. i ordered mine from corvette central,and was disappointed because the outer bearings were made in china(the rest were Timkens). look around locally, i replaced the chinese bearings with Timken bearings,bought over the counter from a company called Berry Bearing. they sell lots of industrial stuff,but can cross reference to anything if you've got the part # or the part in your hand,look for a similiar supplier in your area.also take the time and have the guy doing the work,clean & paint your t-arms,the welds need to be inspected and checked for rust.