Gearbox Tailshaft Bush

[EwanG]

I’m getting ready to pop the engine and gearbox back into the Plus 2. I’m replacing gearbox gaskets and seals. I didn’t plan to replace the tailshaft bush but on checking its condition I noticed that the groove is not aligned with the tailshaft groove (see image). Otherwise the bush seems in reasonable condition. Is this significant? I recall reading in my workshop manual that these should be aligned. Should I attempt to realign or is it folly not to replace with a new bush at this stage?

[2cams70]

Your image attachment didn’t seem to come through

[EwanG]

Sorry had issue with file size. Take 2!

[Craven]

Makes no difference, the groove in the tail shaft allows oil used to lubricate the bearing to return before it reaches the seal.

[EwanG]

Thanks Craven. One less job on the long list!

[2cams70]

To quote from the workshop manual

"Locate a new bearing on tool P7038 and drive it into the extension housing with the split (in the bearing at approximately 35 degrees to the vertical line), until the rear end is flush with the deeper recessed face"

It then shows the start of the oil groove pointing directly downwards

The oil at the end of the extension housing pools at the bottom and I'd suggest the reason why the start of the groove should point directly downwards is so that the pooled oil has the best chance of entering the groove and then being distributed by the groove throughout the entire inner surface of the bush so it receives adequate lubrication under all angles of tilt of the gearbox (worst case with the vehicle going down a steep hill).

I'd recommend just keep things simple and replace it. It's a service part and they do wear. You'll very much regret if you don't replace it and the car subsequently develops a propshaft vibration or excessive leakage from the seal due to instability of the yoke in this bush.

You should not attempt to realign a previously fitted bush

[EwanG]

Thanks 2Cams70