When it comes time to buy aircraft bearings, you must follow many regulations to ensure that you have the right part for the aircraft in question. You want to pick bearings of the highest quality so that you won't have to replace them constantly and to protect your client from possible system failures. Once you align yourself with the right aircraft bearing manufacturers, the rest should fall into place.

The manual for the airplane you need to repair is a good place to start when picking out the right bearings for the job. There are a few things that you should look for when shopping around for bearing suppliers; these include things like:

1. Material used to make the aircraft bearings

2. Other materials that come with the aircraft engine bearings

3. The bearing specifications, including temperature and moisture restraints

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make sure you have the correct aircraft wheel bearing for your needs

If the airplane is under warranty, insist on getting aircraft bearings from the manufacturer to protect your investment. If the aircraft is no longer under warranty, or if you don't have access to the manufacturer, your next best option is to pick a product that's rated as being compatible with your airplane. The bearing distributor can assist you in selecting a product compatible with your particular system.

I recommend: Give your business to a company that will help ensure you're getting the right part. National Precision Bearings and Intercontinental Bearing Supply Company will go out of their way to help you find the right bearings for your aircraft model. You can use their websites to find the part, or call them directly to speak to a sales representative.

Decide what type of airplane bearings you want to purchase

Bearings come in many types, and you have to decide which one is best for the aircraft part in question. You need to decide on a type of material used, the casing options and the lubrication method. Many bearings are already set up on a track and pre-lubricated, so all you have to do is take out the old bearing track and replace it with a new one.

I recommend: Familiarize yourself with the types of bearings available. Igus has plastic, self-lubricating, lubrication-free and other bearings that you can compare on its website. Aircraft Bearing has a nice site that's easy to navigate and compare products. Look at different types of bearings side by side to choose the one that's right for you.

Get the best price on aviation bearings by buying in bulk

If you're stocking up your parts room, you may be able to get a considerable discount by buying your aviation bearings in bulk from a supplier. Many companies offer discounts based on the number of units you buy, or by the total of the sale.

I recommend: Find out what bulk discounts you're eligible for. Contact the aircraft division of Florida Bearings to find out what kind of bulk rate you can get on your next order. And MMB Bearings should be able to assist you with orders of all sizes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Pay special attention to the material used in making bearings for aircraft, since some are better than others at conducting heat or protecting the other components of the airplane.