1941-1956 Front Wheel Bearings

[craig-o]

I've searched the archives to see if there was any hope of upgrading from balls to rollers, but I don't see any viable options.  This car is regularly driven, and I have always sided with quality over originality, especially with internal and/or wear items.

I've searched the usual suppliers (both Cadillac-specific and local auto parts stores) for inner and outer front wheel bearings for my 1955, and have found an astounding range of prices ($159-$437/set.)  Although this is a relatively easy job, I'd prefer to do it only once.  Here are the options I've found; can anyone give me input on quality?

Kanter: $159 for a front axle kit, includes inner and outer (unknown Mfg)
Rock Auto: $60.79 inner, $43.79 outer; $209.16/set (National)
Caddy Daddy: $63.64 each inner and outer; $254.56/set (unknown Mfg)
O'Reilly Auto Parts: $91.99 inner, $65.99 outer; $315.96/set (National)
Advance Auto Parts: $110.99 inner, $78.99 outer; $379.96/set (National)
Original Parts Group: $120.99 inner, $91.99 outer; $425.96/set (unknown Mfg)
USA Parts Supply: $129.85 inner, $88.65 outer; $437/set (unknown Mfg)

Thanks in advance.

[Jay Friedman]

Try Olcar Bearing Company.

[jclasalle]

I've purchased bearings and seals from Olcar Bearing and have been VERY happy with the quality and service.
This past Feb. I ordered and received all the bearings and seals for the differential and rear axle assembly for
my '39 LaSalle, all the parts are either Timken(made in USA) or National( made in Japan).
The owner is George Bachlenda and is very knowledge about Caddys And LaSalles.

Olcar Bearings
135 James Creek Rd.
Southern Pines, NC 28387
910-693-3324

You can do a search of the CLC site and find a number of positive testimonials

[Steve Passmore]

Its actually George Bachleda, there no 'n' in the name and hes a great guy.  Been dealing with him for over 30 years and never stumped him yet.  Never met anyone who knew more about bearings.

[dplotkin]

Whatever you do, use Timken or National only. DO NOT buy bearings from that certain parts house specializing in Packard Parts. Their stuff comes from China & is abject refuse. Had a set on a 60 Buick that failed within 90 days. Put on Timken never thought about them again.

Dan

[Smedly]

I have a friend who is running radial tires, he has been told that it is a must to run tapered bearings not ball bearings do to his tire upgrade. Is this true?

[Roger Zimmermann]

I have a friend who is running radial tires, he has been told that it is a must to run tapered bearings not ball bearings do to his tire upgrade. Is this true?

I don't know...My '56 de Ville and '57 Brougham are on radial tires since years and still have the ball bearings.

[TonyZappone #2624]

Used Olcar for years, hardly ever the cheapest, always the best, plus you are paying for George's endless knowledge of all things bearings.

[craig-o]

I called and spoke with George yesterday.  He confirmed that there are no roller bearlings made to fit this application, and that the ball bearings he has are made in USA.  A full set of front bearings and seals should be shipped out today.

After speaking with him, I wouldn't have minded paying a premium, but his price was actually LOWER than Rock Auto's price for bearings made by National - which was unexpected.

Thanks for pointing me in his direction.