Green Bearings - 8.75 rear end

When I installed the green bearings in my 8 3/4 (years ago), I did not remove the thrust block. After several hundred miles, the rear end started growling. I checked the flanges and they were bent a little (didn't notice this when installed). The axle ends were butted up against the thrust block causing a bind. The bearings were fried. I ended up putting the Timkens back in.