eseemann Posted October 4, 2014 Share Posted October 4, 2014 Quick question, How much size differential (play for lack of a better term) is acceptable between the ID of a bearing and the OD of the Axle? I have a shaft that is about 1 to 3 1/16s of an inch too narrow and I wanted to know if I could use a thin bushing to take up the slack. If that will not work I have another bar of round stock that is about 1/4 inch too thick I can try to have turned down to fit. thanks Ernest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
L Smith Posted October 5, 2014 Share Posted October 5, 2014 a thin bushing should work maybe shim stock wrapped around the shaft. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eseemann Posted October 5, 2014 Author Share Posted October 5, 2014 thanks L, I took a steel can, mushrooms, and made a test collar and it seemed to work. I will try with something a bit more substantial next. Ernest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HWooldridge Posted October 5, 2014 Share Posted October 5, 2014 There isn't a quick answer to your quick question...If you mean what is typically called "running clearance" in a bearing to shaft fit then it varies with the application. If you are trying to bush a shaft for a power hammer then it would be best to use the proper shaft size. Not much different than grinding a crankshaft for an engine and using oversize bearings - you don't want much space beyond what's required for the lube film. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eseemann Posted October 5, 2014 Author Share Posted October 5, 2014 HW, That settles it then, I see about getting the shafts that are too wide turned down and keep an eye open for the right kind of OEM axle. Thanks Ernest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BIGGUNDOCTOR Posted October 5, 2014 Share Posted October 5, 2014 Are you talking bushing, or bearing IE; babbit, or a ball bearing? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
swedefiddle Posted October 5, 2014 Share Posted October 5, 2014 What is the application that you are inquiring about?? Clearance between axle and bearing should be measured in ten thousandth of an inch, if it were for machinery or highway use. The difference between 1/16" and 3/16" clearance, Is not acceptable. IMHO The job of a Blacksmith; Measure with a yardstick Cut it with an Axe Heat it and Beat it Until it fits perfectly Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BIGGUNDOCTOR Posted October 6, 2014 Share Posted October 6, 2014 Ten thousands? More like thousands. Running fit is probably .001" for a solid surface bearing like babbit, bronze, oilite, etc.. For ball bearing .0005"slip fit to .001" press depending on the size shaft and application. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HolbertIronWorks Posted October 6, 2014 Share Posted October 6, 2014 Clearances for anti-friction bearings (roller type) can be specified by the OEM. Sleeve bearings such as babbit or bronze will have clearances based on shaft size, weight, operating speed, oil type and lubrication system. Most anti-friction bearings will have a .001 slip fit to a .002 shrink fit depending on application. Sleeve bearings will usally have a .003 to .025 clearance depending on application. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eseemann Posted October 11, 2014 Author Share Posted October 11, 2014 Thanks for all the good info, if I can not find the rear spindle at one of the "Pull a Part" yards here in Huntsville I have been told about a shop that I can have a pro turn an axle for me. Thanks again, Ernest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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