Abstract: A sand molding machine comprises an elongated tie rod with a removable bearing sleeve portion at its distal end. The distal end of the rod where the sleeve is attached has a reduced diameter end spindle portion with multiple stepped support sections on its outer surface. The sleeve is of generally hollow cylindrical configuration and fits over the spindle end portion of the rod. The sleeve has an outward cylindrical bearing surface, and an inward surface with stepped support sections corresponding to and contacting the outside support sections on the rod when the sleeve is attached. The respective supporting sections on the rod and the sleeve provide a strong tight attachment of the sleeve to the rod without requiring excessive force in order to attach and/or remove the bearing from the rod.