billymc, is this what the back axle looks like on your 1500? This looks like a green Yanmar but appears to have a red rear axle setup.
http://www.ustrading.net/Yanmar_1500green_hitch.jpg
If you could take a picture of your back axle that would be helpful to see the differences between the two.
I'm trying to understand the shim/spacer you are talking about. What should that do for you? My guess is that would be to repair a damaged shaft. The bearing itself still needs replacement.
Looking at the drawing for the green 1500, it appears you have no choice but to remove the entire shaft to get to the bearing. But you may not need to remove the axle/brake housing. The tapper in #27 seems to not allow for the repair to be made any other way.
My suggestion would be to break it all down and determine what you need. I know shipping will be costly but Hoye would be your best bet. Make one large order and know you are getting the correct parts for the job. The only thing I suggest is removing the the seals from the outer bearing and pack it with more grease. You can then reinstall the seals. They come with very little grease initially.
Here is the internals for the green 1500 axle.
Yanmar Tractor Parts: REAR AXLE INT (G)
The photos below show the PTO shaft that is inside the rear axle housing. The sleeve that connects it. The original outer bearing from my tractor that had not yet completely failed.
View attachment 274526View attachment 274527View attachment 274528View attachment 274529View attachment 274530