Abstract: An improved bearing mount sleeve and method of making same. The sleeve has a radial flange and body portion projecting therefrom. First and second shoulders in the body portion seat large and small bearings respectively. Crush ribs apply radial preloading and wave washers apply axial preloading. The sleeve is located by tabs on its flange and a locating element projecting from the end opposite the flange A series of drawing steps result in the sleeve form and piercing and forming steps complete the sleeve at economic advantage.

Abstract: A zero clearance bearing assembly comprising a housing defining a generally cylindrical bearing chamber with a pair of ball bearing units disposed therein. One unit is adjacent an axial thrust reaction surface of frusto-conical configuration and a shoulder on an associated shaft urges the unit into engagement with the surface. The other unit is press fit on the shaft and also has a shaft shoulder urging it toward the thrust surface. An air impeller on the shaft urges the same toward the other bearing unit and the thrust unit reacts to both the impeller load and an axial preload spring engaging the other bearing unit. One or both of the bearing units is provided with an improved radial preload device comprising a spring and a pair of circumaxially spaced reaction surfaces opposing the same.