Understanding Wide 5 Bearings: Standard vs. 1 Ton vs. Deuce and a Half

When it comes to dirt late model race cars, performance is dictated by more than just horsepower and driver skill — the unsung heroes of speed are often the components that keep everything rotating smoothly under stress. One such component is the Wide 5 bearing assembly, especially critical in the rear axle hubs. But not all Wide 5 bearings are created equal.

Let’s dive into the key differences between standard Wide 5 bearings, 1 Ton Wide 5 bearings, and the heavy-duty Deuce and a Half Wide 5 bearings, including when and why each is used in dirt late model competition.

1. Standard Wide 5 Bearings

Overview

Standard Wide 5 bearings are the original bearing style used with Wide 5 hub configurations — a design that allows for quick wheel changes and robust load handling. These are typically tapered roller bearings mounted in steel hub carriers, used across many racing disciplines.

Specs & Characteristics

• Bearing Size: Commonly around 2.125” (outer) and 1.75” (inner)
• Load Rating: Moderate; suitable for typical late model cornering loads
• Weight: Lighter than heavy-duty options
• Maintenance: Easier to service, with commonly available parts

Use Case

Standard Wide 5s are best for:

• Regional or local dirt late model racing
• Tracks with moderate banking and grip
• Teams looking for lighter rotational mass for acceleration

2. 1 Ton Wide 5 Bearings

Overview

As racing technology and track speeds increased, the standard Wide 5 bearing began to show signs of stress — particularly on high-banked, tacky tracks with high G-loads. Enter the 1 Ton Wide 5 bearing setup, borrowing bearing tech from medium-duty truck axles.

Specs & Characteristics

• Bearing Size: Larger rollers and races than standard; typically ~2.56” outer and ~1.78” inner
• Load Rating: Roughly 1-ton truck range — significantly higher than standard
• Durability: Stronger rollers resist deformation and brinelling
• Installation: Usually requires a different hub carrier or machining

Use Case

1 Ton Wide 5s are ideal for:

• National-level dirt late model competition
• Long races with high heat and load
• Teams seeking increased reliability without overbuilding

3. Deuce and a Half Wide 5 Bearings

Overview

The Deuce and a Half Wide 5 bearing setup is the most robust option available in the dirt late model scene. Named after the M35 “Deuce and a Half” 2.5-ton military truck — from which the bearings are sourced — this setup offers extreme strength for high-load environments without requiring extensive modifications.

Specs & Characteristics

• Bearing Size: Very large — typically over 3” outer diameter
• Load Rating: Exceeds 2.5 tons; ideal for extreme cornering and load spikes
• Construction: Heavy-duty dual tapered roller bearings
• Customization Required: Comparable to the 1 Ton setup — requires changing the axle tube stubs and installing appropriately sized bearing races in the Wide 5 hub

Use Case

The Deuce and a Half bearings are best suited for:

• High-grip tracks with significant cornering forces
• Long races with sustained high G-loads
• Teams needing maximum durability and stiffness from the rear axle without committing to a complete custom housing

Updated Summary Comparison Table

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Wide 5 bearing for your dirt late model is a balance between strength, weight, and longevity. While the standard Wide 5 works for most applications, stepping up to a 1 Ton or Deuce and a Half bearing setup can be a smart investment for those pushing the limits of traction and corner speed.

Bear in mind: stronger doesn’t always mean faster. The additional mass and friction of larger bearings can impact acceleration and responsiveness — so match your bearing choice to your track conditions and race length.