There is a washer that is installed prior to the bearing. There is a shoulder in the axle housing that this washer sits on. My guess is it’s there to prevent the bearing from being pushed in when you install the axle. I have them in mine and I made a drawing of that whole assembly when I machined my axles to install ‘37 Buick inner bearing sleeves which match the OD of the original axle effectively creating a new surface for the bearing and seal to ride on. Here is that drawing with the washer highlighted in red.
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IMG_0243.jpeg (207.09 KB, 117 downloads)
Rear axle bearing area

Last edited by Phak1; 08/14/2024 12:05 AM.

Phil
Moderator, The Engine Shop, Interiors and Project Journals

1952 Chevrolet 3100, Three on the Tree, 4:11 torque tube
Updated to: ‘59 235 w/hydraulic lifters, 12v w/alternator, HEI, PCV and Power front Disc Brakes
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