When installing a bearing over a shaft, where should force be applied?

When installing a bearing over a shaft, force should be applied to the inner (inside) race. This approach ensures that the bearing is properly seated on the shaft without risking damage to the bearing itself. When force is applied to the inner race, it pushes the rolling elements and outer race together evenly, allowing them to slide into position without unnecessary stress on the rolling surfaces.

Applying force to the outer race, for instance, could cause the rolling elements to be loaded improperly, potentially leading to brinelling or other forms of premature wear or damage. Even application of force across the bearing surface is also not ideal, as it may not create the necessary alignment as the bearing isn't intended to be installed that way. Applying force to the bearing edges could result in uneven stress distribution and potential deformation. Thus, utilizing the inner race as the point of force application is the most effective and safe method for bearing installation.