In reading through old postings, I came to the conclusion that I need R-1502-EL bearings to replace my GM111121 bearings. Before I shell out the $$ I need to be clear I'm ordering the correct parts. I measured the axle shaft diameter as 1.877" and the inside diameter of the axle housing as 2.77" and W (width) as 1.476" as the distance from the lip to the inside step. The NTN/Bower catalog lists the R-1502-EL as a custom "R" series bearing for automotive rear axle and has an ID 1.8722" and OD as 2.7818" and W (width) as 0.8750".
The truck is an old, abused hydra-matic that has leaked transmission fluid down into the rear axle (worn torque tube seal) and ruined the pinion and ring gears. I managed to obtain replacement parts. The axle bearings were destroyed. The old bearings were removed in pieces, so I need to know if the ID and OD of the bearing is press-in, tap-in or slip-in fit. I would appreciate knowing what others have experienced.
1.) The R-1502-EL bearing has no inner race (the hardened axle shaft becomes the inner race). So, scratch head, the shaft is 0.0048 larger (1.877 - 1.8722) than the bearing core or ID. Is this, okay? The seal goes behind the bearing against the axle hub so the bearing can't be a press fit on the axle shaft?
2.) Next the 1502-EL bearing OD is 0.0118 larger (2.7818 - 2.77) that the inside housing. Is this, okay?
3.) The combined width of seal (0.5") plus bearing (0.875") plus bearing retainer (0.06") is 1.435" total. I do not have the oil deflectors. There will be a gap of 0.04" (1.476" - 1.435"). Is this, okay?
I've read that the bearing retainer (basically a big washer) is needed to help remove the bearing from the housing to minimize damage by the removing tool. If that is true, then the bearing is a tap-in fit and seal is tap-in as well?
