Bearing split outer ring and method of assembly

A method of assembly of a housed bearing, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a split outer ring, said outer ring being split into two unequal portions, the first of said portions subtending at least 185 degrees of arc and the second of said portions subtending no more than 175 degrees of arc;
• retaining said split outer ring over an inner raceway with rolling elements therebetween to provide a subassembly, said portions of the outer ring having ends aligned relative to each other such that a uniform annular outer raceway is formed;
• positioning said subassembly in a housing base such that the ends of the outer ring portions are all contained within the housing base, the housing base subtending approximately 180 degrees of arc;
• and
• thereafter, mounting a housing cover over said subassembly and against the housing base, the housing base and housing cover being dimensioned to provide an interference fit with said split outer ring.