I have to agree with GTXMatt here.

If the bearing is a slip fit on the pinion then there is the chance of the race wearing the pinion stem. Possibly galling it because that portion of the bearing is not designed to be lubed (no oil grooves) like the needle cage is. IMO the pinion and bearing need to become one as the housing and race are, with a press fit.

I could see easing the press fit a bit and the only way I would do this is by honing the I.D. of the bearing. Start taking material off the pinion and you have a cluster F*** the next time it needs to be worked on.