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Going through the clutch linkage on my 2106 (standard no electro). I see that there is a needle bearing (3.1385) on each side of the relay lever (3.128). Inner bearing screws to the bell housing and the other to a bracket.

Lots of wear here. Not so much on the inside needles, although they fall out of the race and I assume they should not. But, the outside of the bearings show grooves where the lever has been wearing against them and the bearings seem a very loose fit in the lever.

Questions for the masters. Shouldn't those bearings be a snug fit in lever? If so, any harm in getting bearings slightly oversize in O.D. to fit tightly?

Thanks,
Mark

When real longevity of fit is desired, needle bearings are not the greatest choice for moving parts that don't make a full revolution as the needles tend to flat-spot from the partial revolution back and forth. This is often very noticeable in needle bearings from king pins and universal joints. I've never had one of those assemblies apart so no specific recommendation on what to do about it - lots of possibilities. One would be to try to find a caged needle bearing assembly of the proper dimensions - make some measurements and try a good bearing supplier. Also, if the mating surfaces aren't too worn, how about just trying new needles?

The bearings should be a snug fit in the lever.
I don't know if oversize ones are available but the direct replacement should be available off the shelf.

Torrington B 1012 X

And McMaster also carries them if you can't get one locally. You might double check these dimensions to be sure since I've ordered other bearings and might have them confused. I believe this is the correct one for the clutch. I ordered this when one of mine turned up missing. It was a perfect match to the other bearing still with the car.