DU Bearings

[Dutch 4]

Some engine manufacturers brag about using DU (Duplex Universal) bearings. True, a DU is made of lead and Teflon, and can run dry. But I always thought of them more as bushings rather than bearings. Can a DU bearing withstand a side load?

[PatRarick 1]

It seems as though DU bearings can stand a DIRECT side load, as is proven by many lawn tractors. There is the side load of the mower deck plus the transmission, both pulling back. This is even true of the plain bearing types. They last a long time. On the other hand,in my post from late last fall, I stated that I saw the DU bearing on my 18 horse Vanguard V-twin give out. This bearing is on the opposite side of the pull. I have just assumed that the tolerance of the ball bearing is not as close as the DU bearing. With the pull on the ball bearing, I feel that it is the leverage of the side load, combined with the additional clearance of the ball bearing, is what has led to my bearing failures. Keep in mind, this is just my assumption. Pat