Rear Hub Bearings for 5 Speed axle

[Rich K]

Hi, refurbing my 3.08 axle for the V8 build at the moment. I am looking for Timken or similar high quality replacement hub bearings. I believe the original Timken part codes for the bearing cone/cup assembly are U298/U261L. I’ve also found a similar bearing assembly listed in the current Timken online catalogue with codes LM48548/LM48510. Does anyone have any wisdom to impart regarding sourcing decent quality bearings for this purpose and has anyone found a supply that won’t break the bank?
Any pointers or advice much appreciated.
Thanks.

[Howard722]

U298/U261L.
These are a match for the Timken bearings numbers in an original Unipart box that I have GHK 1028.
They are marked `Made in USA`, I have only ever found a single box so far and it does include the seals and the heavy spacer (recessed one side?) ULC2350.
My understanding is that fitting the half shafts with new bearings etc. is not easy and requires some heavy duty press kit to do it - what are your plans?
Hope this is helpful-with regards H

[Rich K]

Hi Howard, thanks for your response. The existing bearings I have removed from the half shafts indeed bear these codes but have Timken made in Australia stamped on them. I have an engineer contact who has the necessary kit to remove and fit these types of bearings from similar Ford axles so no problem with the process.
I have found Timken bearings online from a supplier in the UK called Bearing King which appear to have the same specification as the original U298/U261L assembly. These are coded LM48548/LM48510 and are very reasonably priced at £12.74 each. I am 99.9% sure that these will be suitable but was hoping someone out there could help confirm this to be correct.

[Rich K]

So I have gone with a rear hub kit (both sides) from NTY under the part code KLT/KA/050A. Interestingly this also fits Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sportage 1994 - 2003. The kit is complete with bearings, seals and spacers and is described as OE quality. Price in the UK is circa £54.

[Beans]

So I have gone with a rear hub kit (both sides) from NTY under the part code KLT/KA/050A.

Interesting info. Thanks for sharing!

[Rich K]

Happy to share Beans. Should be getting them fitted later this week.

[Beans]

I even found them on a Dutch parts site!