Pilot bearing clearance

[2000 Exp]

On my 1985 Ranger 5 speed, I am installing a new pilot bearing before changing to a different 5 speed trans. The oilite bronze bearing I have, has a clearance of about .004 on the pilot shaft to the bearing, seems ok on one trans, but a little tight on the other trans. I bought a needle bearing type bearing that has a clearance of about .010 to .012, difficult to measure the needle bearing type, and this bearing seems very loose. I would rather use the oilite bearing, read some bad stories of needle bearings. Anyone know what would be a good clearance for the oilite bearing? thanks, Bob..

 

[AllanD]

And "old style" sutomotive machine shop should be able to open the ID of the oilite bronze bushing a couple of thousanths for you.

Frankly next time I replace the clutch on my 4.0 I will MAKE an oilite bronze bushing if I can't find one that works or can easily be modified.

AD

 

[aspevacek]

Needel bearings are fine. Alot of things get a bad rap because people install them improperly or they just do not fully understand how they are supposed to work. Look at fuel injection in the 80's, TTB suspension.

As long as you pack the bearing with a good film of grease prior to installing it and mabey a lil smear on the rollers just prior to putting in the transmision I would say it would b efine as long as the shaft from the tranny goes in smooth and is able to rotate in the bearing with out free play. By free play I mean distance between the rollers contact and the inputshaft.

 

[2000 Exp]

I read on the internet the oilite having a clearance of .002 to .005 was ok.

Can not remember what type vehicle that readings were for.

I lost my needle bearing type. I will try the oilite with .004 and see how it

is..