Axle Bearing Retainer

[Alponcho]

I've never dealt with a 9" rear end before and I'm wondering if axle bearing retainers are supposed to look like this when they're tightened up. Am I missing something? Really could use some input on this.

[79 Camaro]

Either wrong bearings, too long or axles too long. That is not right.

[dontlifttoshift]

The A20 bearings will stick out a bit. They are tapered so getting the preload right matters.

Where is your backing plate or caliper bracket?

[Tim C]

The A20 bearings will stick out a bit. They are tapered so getting the preload right matters.

Where is your backing plate or caliper bracket?

This X2. Some of that difference is taken up on a stock 9 by the drum brake backing plate. Most disc conversions that bolt on actually have to put a spacer ring inside the caliper bracket to allow the retainer to still contact the bearing.

[Alponcho]

The parking brake brackets on my Baer kit has grooves to accommodate a bearing, however, there's still a gap between the bracket and the housing ends. The bolts in the photo are not tightened, just snugged up. I suspect the gap will close some if I tighten the bolts, but concerned about trashing the bearing or bending the bracket. Or am I ok?

[dontlifttoshift]

As you tighten the bracket down the seal collapses a bit and you should end up flush.

Check the other side, is it the same? I have had axles that are just a fuzz too long as there are some variances in differentials.

[Alponcho]

The other side is the same. Out of curiosity I installed the rotor hat and wheel and found I have a slight rubbing on the back edge of the hat with the bracket. I'll go ahead and tighten the bolts and see where I'm at. Thanks for the help!