I just pressed in the new bearings (2020M-17) into a 1947 726 frame. The new bearing measured 0.250" in depth while the old worn out ones measured 0.216"-0.230". I pressed them in using an arbor press till I felt resistance and stopped. I then measured how much the bearing was protruding for the frame surface and measured about about 0.021".
Am I correct to assume these get pressed all the way or should I have stopped short of pressing all the way so more bearing sticks out?
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On many Lionel locomotives, the bearing are not supposed to be pressed into the die cast chassis until they are flush. They protrude to keep the backs of the wheels from rubbing on the die cast chassis.
I don't have any details on your 1947 Berkshire.
I would test fit a wheel & axle assembly to see how close the wheel comes to rubbing.
If they are already pressed too far, you can use 671M-23 or 671M-19 washers to keep the backs of the wheels from rubbing. It may take more than one.
Usually the proper gauge is achieved when the end of the axle is flush with the hub of the wheel. Subtract two two hub widths from the axle length and compare that to the dimension over the bushing faces. That should give you a good idea where you stand. Also check the bushing ID. Not uncommon for the ID to need reaming after being pressed in. One to two over the axle OD.
Same as above, the bearing should extend around a 64th of an inch. The picture looks correct.
I think it's correct. I will measure and test the axle fitment.
I used a gage pin to keep the bearing ID correct while pressing. Definitely was tighter afterwards.
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