bearings: metal-shielded vs teflon?

[dugrant153]

Hey guys,

So I just cleaned up my metal-shielded bearings. But then I keep reading about Teflon bearings.

First off, I read that metal bearings require more maintenance than teflon. Is this true? and why?

Second, is it worth it to convert to teflon bearings? Are there are alot of gains to be had with switching?

[relayer]

What bearings you should use depend upon how dirty the track is you run on and how much maintenance you want to do.

Metal shielded bearings have a small gap between the inner race and the side shield so they have less friction but gap allows dirt and dust to enter which means more frequent cleaning required.

Teflon shielded bearings have teflon shield which actually rubs against the inner race of the bearing (albeit slightly), so they have a little more friction but keep dirt out better.

Rubber sealed bearings seal even better than teflon, so you are getting maximum dirt protection but at a cost of more friction again.

For dusty off road tracks I recommend teflon or rubber seals for all the hubs and diff outdrives.

For touring cars shielded bearings are usually fine but if you don't like cleaning the transmission then put teflon or rubber sealed bearings on the diff outdrives.

[dugrant153]

cool :) I think that answers my question.