Loose bearing race

I think I already know the answer, but. driver's side wheel seal started leaking so I pulled wheel, hub, backing plate and axle. Low and behold when I checked the race I could pull it out with my fingers. I thought the races should be a tight fit. Race and bearing look good, no slop, but when I drive you can hear a noise. Question, do I need to replace the axle to get a tight fit? Or do you think a new bearing would solve the problem of a loose fit? I am replacing the seal.

 

edit: 75 cj5/304 with danna 44 rear

 

If the axle is OK otherwise, I would first try a new bearing/race. If the new one is still sloppy, try installing it with a strip of brass shim between the race and axle, so it's an interference press-fit. Make the shim the same width as the race, and long enough to go all the way around, with very little gap, so the bearing is centered.

 

Ok thanks, good ideas, I'll check out both and let you know what happens.

 

could also dimple the area of the axle around the race or add filler metal (epox).