Identify your bearing
Find a Bearing
Have a part number, an old bearing or an application to describe? Start with the information you already have.
What information do you have?
A part number or marking
Copy the complete designation, including every prefix and suffix. Add the manufacturer and a clear photograph if the marking is difficult to read.
Start with a part number →Dimensions or an old part
Record the dimensions you can identify and include their units. Photographs can help explain the part and its mounting arrangement.
Check what to measure →An application or design brief
Describe the connection, how it moves and where it operates. Identify the interfaces and requirements that are already fixed.
Prepare an application brief →Start with the complete part marking
- Keep every character. Record the brand, complete designation, separators and suffixes. Keep your internal purchasing reference alongside the original marking.
- Add the source information. Include a photograph, drawing or datasheet where available. Mark any characters you cannot read.
- Look for the relevant series. Open the product catalogue and compare the listed designation, dimensions and configuration notes.
Looking for an alternative to another part? Read the replacement comparison guide .
Identify the dimensions you can provide
Use the original drawing symbols where available. Distinguish measurements taken from a sample from dimensions specified on a drawing.
- Spherical plain bearing
- Bore, outside diameter, inner ring width and outer ring width. Include the drawing or photographs showing the ring arrangement.
- Rod end bearing
- Bearing bore and width, male or female connection, complete thread callout, thread hand and centre distance where known.
- Plain or flanged bushing
- Inside diameter, outside diameter and length. For a flanged part, include the flange diameter and thickness.
- Linkage or assembly
- Connections at both ends, centre distance, adjustment range and the space available around the assembly.
Add units to every measurement. Identify worn surfaces, uncertain values and dimensions that are still unknown.
Describe the connection and its operating conditions
A short explanation and an assembly sketch can help identify what needs to be reviewed.
- Locate the connection. Describe the machine, joint position and mating components. Include any fixed installation dimensions.
- Explain the movement. State the movement type, range, speed or frequency and operating cycle where known.
- Describe the loads and environment. Include load directions, normal and peak values with units, temperature, contamination and maintenance access.
- Identify the project stage. Explain whether this is a replacement, new design, prototype or production requirement. List open questions.
Use the application enquiry checklist
Explore application examples · Prepare a custom part or linkage enquiry
Review more than the dimensions
Sliding materials, clearances, seals, lubrication, movement and operating loads also affect the selection. A dimensional match alone does not confirm suitability or interchangeability.
Need help identifying the part?
Send the marking, dimensions or application information you have. Identify missing details so they can be clarified during review.
