Cab's 915 1/2 refresh. Check your needle bearing cages

[cabmandone]

Gordo2 and I are doing a refresh on my 915 1/2 synchros, dog teeth and slider. We were getting ready for reassembly when one of the needle bearings fell out of the cage. Upon inspection, the seam in the cage had opened up. You'll see in the pics attached that the other cage appears to be cracked but it does not open up like the one with the visible separation. Make sure you check the cages on your needle bearings! It "probably" wouldn't cause an issue since the needle bearings are housed inside first and second gear but we felt better ordering new (OUCH! next day shipping) and knowing the cages are both solid.

[Peter Zimmermann]

Good decision, Nick!

I've seen those bearings cause problems, and when doubt about one exists I always replace it. When you have the gear assembled and on its shaft turn the gear slowly. The bearing should follow along and be very smooth.

[cabmandone]

Matt,
The bearing on the main shaft that I referenced is pictured below. Hope this helps.