Axle bearing clearance

[mindofmango]

Hello and needed advice. 63 c10 2wd 12 bolt rear. Have drilled out original 6 lug to 5x5 chevy wheel pattern. Axles are in good condition with no noticeable groove at the bearing location. C clip axle. My question is whether to replace with original bearing and seal or use one piece Timken saver bearing. How tight should the bearing be when axle and bearing are in axle tube. There is a very small amount of play when I dry fit the new replacement bearing in the original place before installing.

[aerotruk63]

The 63 Shop manual shows a special tool for tapping the new bearing into place after it has been greased. Another special tool is used for the grease seal.

Do you have the pressed on backing plates?

[mindofmango]

No it has the bearing in The axle tube. There is a minor spacing between the axle and new bearing. Am trying to find out if this is ok or does the bearing need to be in contact all around the axle. The wear on the original axle doesnt seem to indicate any noticable indentI

[racecougar]

The bearing shell should be light press fit into the tube with minimal play between the rollers and the axle shaft.

A '63 should have the pressed on backing plates.