Diff Carrier Bearings - thrust side?

[steve davidson]

Hi all,
 
I'm reconditioning a diff and hit a little snag.  The Woodrow book simply states that the diff carrier bearings need to be pressed on while the Essex Club guide makes a point about the orientation (thrust side facing out).  My new bearings are not marked with "thrust" so how do I know which is which?  See attached photo with a pink and blue side.
 
Thanks

   
   

[David Stepney]

The thrust side in the 'closed' side (i.e. the bit with the writing on) as per your first photo.

[Tony Press]

The 'pink' side of this angular contact bearing is fitted toward the crown wheel carrier, the outer 'blue' ring is fitted  into the diff housing.

[steve davidson]

Thanks Tony,

Any chance you can explain how you picked which side was the thrust?  I assume it's because the "closed side" allows force to be applied to the centre of the ball but maybe that's not it.

Thanks again for the reply

[Tony Press]

Think of the angular contact bearing as a cross between a radial ball bearing and a ball thrust bearing - the raised shoulders on the inner and outer ring are 'thrust' faces - the axial thrust causes the balls to 'ride up' these thrust faces .  

The reduced shoulder on the non thrust side allows for installation of a larger number of  balls, increasing the axial  and radial load capacity.

[Parazine]

Reference to the picture should show that thrust (pressure) can only be applied in one direction. Incorrect assembly will cause the bearing to fall apart or last a very short time - like the wheel bearings I replaced in my father's 1966 Riley 4/72 when I was a lad. 500 miles they lasted. I've always rememered the correct way round from that experience.


  00014D0D_16_9-schaeffler-products-angular-contact-ball-bearings_rwd_1200.jpg (Size: 52.53 KB / Downloads: 83)

[steve davidson]

Thanks for the explanation Tony, you are all very generous with your knowledge.  I like knowing what to do, but l love knowing why and your answer has provided that answer.

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Thanks Paranzie, your explination and drawing are much appreicated 

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thanks for the info