inner CV joint bearing(tripod)
 

I pulled my halfshaft today on my 850R to change the boots. First thing I noticed was there were no needle bearings on the inner CV joint (tripod). Since this is the first time I have done this to my 96 I have neve seen that before. No evidence of needle bearings anywhere so my question is, Was this the design in 1996? If so good. Otherwise I need know where I can get one from.

Please advise ASAP.


Thanks.

Do the rollers move smoothly on the tripod?

yes they do. It is an Automatic and it is the passenger side. I took out the drivers side and it has needle bearings on it unlike the passenger side and the 3 bear OD are are smaller than the passenger side too. Is this normal?

Is it possible they are just hidden under the wheels?

No, the passenger side is completely different and has no rollers (needle) bearings at all. There isn't any play between the bearing wheels and the tripod spider either. Only the drivers side has rollers (needle) bearings. FCP Groton and Eeuroparts don't show the parts. Only the complete shaft assembly. See photos. On the right is the passenger side and on the left is the drivers side.

Ok one is aftermarket and one is OEM. The roller bearing one is aftermarket.

Thanks Tech. Since there is no play in the one without needle(roller) bearings I presume it is fine to reinstall back into the car with new grease?

Yes that is what I would do.

I got a couple of more people to look at it. They said it was OK too and that they have seen some without rollers before too but not often. I pust everything back together and its working fine.

Thanks Tech

Your welcome anytime.