Wheel Bearing Question

Looking for some input in choosing wheel bearings. I used to use OEM then switched to All Balls/Moose/Pivot Works. I can't say for sure, but my feeling is the aftermarket bearings have a much shorter life. I find the aftermarket ones last as long as the tire, and I remember the OEM ones lasting through 2-3 tires. Anyone else notice the same thing?

I think that is the general consensus and it has been my experience.
Another option is, if you have the model numbers, you can often find reasonable prices the top maker's products (SKF, FAG, etc.) at local industrial bearing distributors like Motion Industries, Fastenal, Applied Industrial, etc.

What he said, and can be had for 1/4 of the price (and to my experience same or better longevity).

All balls bearings are Chinese junk - and there are actually some good Chinese bearings.

Bearings have numbers on either the inner or outer race that tell you what they are, essentially their part number.
There are different series and numbers based on speed, load, size and seal type.
Learn how to read the numbers or measure them and buy them online or from your local bearing supplier. Most of the smaller bearing suppliers are pretty good and will work with you if you take a bearing in to them

when i owned my transmission shop, i would get a lot of bearing through parts source.

Thanks for the replies. What is the consensus on bearing type-sealed both sides or sealed one side and you have to pack it with grease?

Timken and SKF are probably the 2 biggest industrial suppliers of bearings and they are just as good if not better than OEM. I worked in tow-motor repair
many years ago and we used only the above 2 suppliers. As mentioned above you need to have the actual numbers on the bearings to order.

As for Chinese bearings, you have got to be kidding me?!

Michael, use double sealed (DDU or 2RS depending on manufacturer) NOT shielded or open!. DO NOT open/remove the rubber seal of the bearings period. The grease in there from install will make sure you get to the max life. Make sure you stay with a larger brand ie SKF, FAG, Timken, etc. they are available at your local bearing supplier (worst comes to it, most metric bearings and seals are next day) for example if you are in the GTA you could try BDI Canada in scarborough or Canadian Bearings. I'm putting in an order for KTM rears and seals (6005 and 2X41X7 seals) in the next couple of days if those are your sizes let me know I can order an extra set.

Ragnar/

Try Boca bearings, if you trace with the number found on the bearing you can choose the option you like best . . I find stainless steel last much longer as they do not rust like the stock ones do when they get wet .