I pulled the front left hub out as I could feel a little play in the wheel when I jacked it up and shook it (holding at 6 & 12 'o clock positions).

Upon removing the metal cap on the end of the wheel hub, I could see that the inner race of the outer bearing was loose and i could move/shake it just by pushing with my finger.

I removed the hub, but has to use considerable effort to do it.

Does the inner race of the inner wheel bearing just slide onto the axle or do you have to force it in?

I tried to slide the new inner race onto the axle and it wouldn't go in. It is tight where the bearing seating surface just starts to transition to a tapered surface. After that it just slides on. I am talking about the seating surface of the inner wheel bearing.

Does this mean my axle is toast and I need a new one?

Thanks.

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1986 300E (3/2002) Rear ended and totaled (10/2009)
2000 Xterra (5/2000)
1992 400E (11/2009) -Sold
1986 300E (12/2009) - Sold
2004 E500 Wagon (6/2013) - Sold