I need a countershaft expert

[Dan W.]

I've installed new bearings at both ends of the countershaft on my '47, but I have about one-eighth of an inch of end play. Is the bearing retainer cap supposed to contact the front bearing and hold it firmly against the bearing retainer? If so, mine is very worn and is allowing the end play. Can they be repaired?

[Donny M]

Not to sound as I look, but what countershaft are you speaking of

[Dan W.]

Donny, My question concerns the countershaft in the transmission.

[Donny M]

At the retainer there should be several shims. The shims are between the retainer and the transmission case to take up the end play. You can remove the shims as necessary.

[VinceD]

Dan, the bearing retainer cap should rest against the retainer ring that snaps into the outside of the bearing. That should keep the bearing from moving either to the front or rear. The nut on the countershaft, when torqued to specs, should keep the shaft from moving in the bearing.

Make sure the proper shims are behind the bearing carrier.

In short, there should be no end play in the countershaft.

I think I have this right. Someone please correct me if I am wrong.

[Jim Becker]

The shims are to adjust mesh of the ring and pinion gears. If you have end play in the countershaft, you need to make sure the gears are adjusted properly, not just get rid of the end play.