MTFCA Forum

Installing the roller bearings in my new to me ruckstell axle and came across a problem. The 13 - 14 axle tube on the passenger side does not allow the bearing sleeve in all the way after the neoprene seal is installed. There is a 1/8” inch hanging out from the axle tube. The sleeve is four inches and the space provided in the tube is also four inches. Should I file the sleeve down a 1/16” of an inch or just don’t worry about it?

The sleeve must be trimmed. (on inner seal end!) Sticking out will prevent the outer seal can from going on all the way. Of greater concern is the alignment dimple. Note it is not centered in the hole & is keeping the sleeve from seating. Normally with this situation, a minimally worn roller bearing wont go in without a hammer assist.

What John said. I had the same issue, I had to grind the sleeve shorter. Do it so that the end if flush and the dimple in the sleeve fits well in its indexing hole on the axle housing.

If I grind the sleeve to match the axle tube then the bearing will be tight. Doesn’t the bearing need space to move in and out to keep it from getting hot? Frank

The bearing may not be all the way in now. The sleeve teet is not in position, making the sleeve effectively too small ID. When correct, there is a good bearing length clearance. The sleeve gets trimmed on the inside edge, You didnt put the seal in backwards? Neoprene cone goes in first.
I have found they fit too tight to the axle & benefit with about 3/8" trim. EVERYONE I have seen not trimmed has grabbed onto the axle & shredded itself into uselessness. Trim right @ the raised bead.