Needle bearings into transmission input shaft help!

[rrunnertexas]

I have a new NOS input shaft for the transmission in my 1935 Plymouth PJ.  I'm trying to install the needle roller bearings into the input shaft from my new small parts kit.  All but 1 of the bearings will sit.  Measuring the old needles vs the new ones and both are .0216" each.  Am I crazy to think the Mopar NOS shaft inside diameter is just a few thousands too small which will not let the bearings seat?

 

What if I run it with one less needle bearing?

 

 

 

 

[Dodgeb4ya]

You have to have all of them in place...yes the last one can be tough to snap down into place.

Some times sliding it sideways into place works.

Other times wedging it into place ising a wooden or brass copper round drift.

It should snap down into place properly.

Removing that snap ring is tough...I leave them alone.

Edited February 12, 2023 by Dodgeb4ya
spelling

[Mark D]

Definitely don’t omit a bearing, all

sorts of internal damage would result from the slop.

 

a slightly tapered brass or soft steel drift is what you need. 
 

 

[Los_Control]

Just now, Mark D said:

Definitely don’t omit a bearing, all

sorts of internal damage would result from the slop.

 

a slightly tapered brass or soft steel drift is what you need. 
 

 

Translated .... You need a BFH!  

[Tired iron]

That last needle needs to be slid into place from the end and then it'll slip right down in. Do NOT force it into place! And do not run it with one less needle as there would be way too much clearance and your input shaft would fail prematurely.