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McGill Bearings: A Guide to Part Number System

Picture of Robert Robert : Aug 27, 2025 5:58:10 AM

McGill Bearings

Grasp the intricacies of McGill part numbers for tailored bearing choices. Since the CAMROL® patent in 1905, McGill has expanded to over 1,400 bearing configurations. This guide sheds light on picking the right bearings, delving into their rich history, diverse options, and performance tips.

Overview of McGill Bearings Part Number System

The structure of McGill Bearings part numbers consists of a prefix, suffix, and designation. Together provide detailed specifications for each bearing.

The prefix typically indicates the bearing series or type. The suffix provides additional information such as the material or special features like sealing. The designation encompasses details like size, dimensions, and design specifics.

Here's a high-level diagram to illustrate the structure:

Prefix + Suffix + Designation

[Series/Type] + [Material/Features] + [Size/Dimensions/Design]

This structure allows for a systematic and detailed identification of bearing specifications. It ensures that you select correct bearing for any given application.

Understanding Prefixes in McGill Bearings Part Numbers

Standard Prefixes

List Common Standard Prefixes of McGill Bearings Part Numbers

Prefix	Meaning
.0	SPHERE-ROL, indicates standard diametral clearance
.10	CAGEROL, retainer not penetrate treated
.100	CAGEROL, split into two halves
.20	MULTIROL, new design, spring steel rings replace rolled lips
.30	MULTIROL, MI inners, old style large diameter race
.9	CAMROL, indicates close running clearance between outer ring counter-bore and flange O.D. (0.003 inch)
.A	CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, radial oil hole omitted in stein or plugged, or SPHERE-ROL with tapered bore plus adapter sleeve, locknut, and lockwasher
.C	STANDARD BEARING, all external surfaces chrome plated
.C2	SPHERE-ROL, indicates diametral clearance less than standard
.C3	SPHERE-ROL, indicates diametral clearance larger than standard
.C4	SPHERE-ROL, indicates diametral clearance larger than C3
.CR	STAINLESS STEEL (CORROSION-RESISTING)

Explain Each Standard Prefix

Prefixes in McGill Bearings part numbers provide key specs:

.0: SPHERE-ROL with standard diametral clearance for general use.
.10: CAGEROL with a non-penetrate treated retainer, affecting performance and wear.
.100: CAGEROL split into two halves for easy installation and maintenance in tight spaces.

Obsolete Prefixes

Identify Obsolete Prefixes and Their Equivalents

Obsolete Prefix	Equivalent Prefix	Description
.DB	R	Obsolete prefix for radial fitting Gurney type bearings, now replaced by "R" for paired bearings duplex mounted back-to-back
.DF	U	Obsolete prefix for a specific type of bearing, now replaced by "U" for duplex mounted, face-to-face bearings

Provide Context on Usage

The table below explains when and why certain prefixes became obsolete.

No.	When Prefixes Become Obsolete	Why Prefixes Become Obsolete	Example
1	Technological Advancements	Product Improvements	Older bearings are replaced with new designs for better performance.
2	Changes in Industry Standards	Cost Reduction	Bearings no longer meeting updated standards are phased out to reduce production costs.
3	Market Dynamics	Customer Feedback	Discontinued due to low demand based on customer preferences.
4	Production Efficiency	Environmental Concerns	Streamlining production leads to the obsolescence of certain bearing types.
5	Regulatory Changes	Safety and Compliance	Products are redesigned or discontinued to meet new safety regulations.

Decoding Suffixes in McGill Bearings Part Numbers

Common Suffixes

List Common Suffixes

Suffix	Meaning
.A	1. CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, RADIAL OIL HOLE OMITTED IN STEIN OR PLUGGED 2. SPHERE-ROL, WITH TAPERED BORE PLUS ADAPTER SLEEVE, LOCKNUT AND LOCKWASHER
.AL	ALUMINUM ALLOY RETAINER OR SEPARATOR
.B	CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, HEXAGONAL HOLE REPLACES SCREWDRIVER SLOT IN FLANGE END OF STEM
.C	STANDARD BEARING, ALL EXTERNAL SURFACES CHROME PLATED
.C2	SPHERE-ROL, INDICATES DIAMETRAL CLEARANCE LESS THAN STANDARD
.C3	SPHERE-ROL, INDICATES DIAMETRAL CLEARANCE LARGER THAN STANDARD
.C4	SPHERE-ROL, INDICATES DIAMETRAL CLEARANCE LARGER THAN C3
.CL	SPHERE-ROL, INDICATES DIAMETRAL CLEARANCE LESS THAN C2
.CP	STANDARD BEARING WITH CHROME PLATED O.D., ALL OTHER EXPOSED SURFACES, AS MOUNTED, CADMIUM PLATED
.CR	STAINLESS STEEL (CORROSION-RESISTING)
.CU	COPPER ALLOY RETAINER OR SEPARATOR

Explain Each Common Suffix

Suffix	Description
.A	CAMROL: Radial oil hole omitted or plugged. SPHERE-ROL: Tapered bore with adapter sleeve, locknut, and lockwasher.
.AL	Aluminum alloy retainer or separator.
.B	CAMROL with hexagonal hole replacing screwdriver slot in flange end of stem.

Specialized Suffixes

Detail Specialized Suffixes

Suffix	Description
+E	CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, ECCENTRIC BUSHING PRESSED ON STEM
+L	CAMROL, WITH LUBRI-DISC FEATURE
AN	SPHERE-ROL, LARGE LOCKNUT (SEE "N" PREFIX)
ASMO	MULTIROL, SINGLE-ROW, OUTER RACE AND ROLLER ASSEMBLY, SELF-ALIGNING, SPHERICAL HOUSING AND O.D.
B	BALL BEARING FOR PILLOW BLOCK (MFG. FOR BROWNING)
BA	ANNULAR BALL BEARING, SINGLE-ROW, COUNTERBORED OUTER RING, ANGULAR CONTACT, CONTACT ANGLE 22 DEGREES TO 32 DEGREES
BB	SPECIAL BALL BEARINGS
BC	ANNULAR BALL BEARING, SINGLE-ROW, RADIAL, NON-LOADING GROOVE SELF-CONTAINED
BH	ANNULAR BALL BEARING, SINGLE-ROW, COUNTERBORED OUTER RING, RADIAL
BM	BALL BEARING FOR PILLOW BLOCK (MFG. FOR T.B. WOOD)
BN	ANNULAR BALL BEARING, SINGLE-ROW, COUNTERBORED OUTER RING, ANGULAR CONTACT, CONTACT ANGLE 10 DEGREES TO 22 DEGREES
BR	SPECIAL ROLLER BEARING
BT	ANNULAR BALL BEARING, SINGLE-ROW, COUNTERBORED OUTER RING, ANGULAR CON-TACT, CONTACT ANGLE 32 DEGREES TO 45 DEGREES
CF	CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, FULL COMPLIMENT ROLLER BEARING, WITH INTEGRAL STUD
CFH	CAMROL, CAM FOLLOWER, FULL COMPLIMENT ROLLER BEARING WITH INTEGRAL HIGH CAPACITY STUD
CT	SPECIAL ROLLER BEARING UTILIZING CENTER GUIDED ROLLER ASSEMBLY
CYR	CAMROL, YOKE ROLLER, FULL COMPLIMENT ROLLER BEARING WITH INNER RACE FOR YOKE MOUNTING
EMRF	CAGEROL, CAM FOLLOWER, HEAVY SECTION OUTER WITH INNER RING
F+	PILLOW BLOCK SERIES, INDICATES 4-BOLT BASE ON SIZES NOT ALREADY HAVING THAT FEATURE
GR	GUIDEROL, HEAVY DUTY ROLLER BEARING, SELF-CONTAINED, OUTER RACE AND CENTER GUIDED ROLLER ASSEMBLY
GRI	GUIDEROL, WITH SEPARABLE INNER RACE. METRIC SIZES.
GTR	DRAWN CUP ROLLER BEARING, WITH ONE PIECE RETAINER, SINGLE-ROW OR ROLLERS, NO INNER, OPEN ENDS, PRECISION GROUND O.D. REGULAR ROLLER SERIES.

Explain Their Definitions

Suffix	Function/Application Category	Description
+E	Adjustment Feature	CAMROL cam follower with an eccentric bushing for radial clearance adjustment.
AN	Locking Mechanism	SPHERE-ROL bearing with a large locknut for secure installation (details in "N" prefix).

Understanding McGill Bearing Block Part Number System

Introduce the Bearing Block Part Number System

The Bearing Block Part Number System enhances the overall bearing system. They offer a straightforward way to identify specific features of the block. These include the material used, the bolt pattern, and the size of the bearing insert.

This integration ensures seamless selection of both bearings and their housings, maintaining consistency and efficiency in inventory and application.

Provide Detailed Examples

Example 1: FP2-10-1

F: Flange bearing block.
P2: Stamped steel construction.
10: 2-bolt mounting.
1: Low cost non-relube ball bearing insert.
1: One-inch bore size.

This part number clearly specifies a flange-style bearing block made of stamped steel with a 2-bolt mounting arrangement. And it is suitable for a low-cost, non-reloadable ball bearing with a one-inch bore diameter.

Example 2: PFC4-25-1 1/4-S

PF: Indicates a piloted flange, crucial for alignment.
C4: Specifies gray iron material, known for strength.
25: Denotes a 4-bolt pattern, ensuring secure mounting.
1 1/4: Identifies the 1-1/4 inch bore size.
S: Signifies a smaller-than-standard 206 metric size bearing insert, fitting unique specifications.

Example 3: NDLW-25-1-9/16

N: Nickel plating for enhanced corrosion resistance.
DL: Ductile iron construction for durability.
W: Extra wide inner race for increased load capacity.
25: Standard duty bearing insert for general applications.
1-9/16: Bore size of 1-9/16 inches, suitable for specific shafts

Example 4: DD-35-1-1/2

D: Ductile iron pillow block for robustness.
D: Double lock mechanism for secure installation.
35: Medium duty bearing insert for moderate load applications.
1-1/2: 1-1/2 inch bore size, fitting standard shaft dimensions.

Detailed Breakdown of Prefix and Suffix Combinations

Provide Specific Part Number Examples

Break Down Part Numbers

The chart below is a quick reference. You can check it to figure out what the different suffixes in McGill Bearings part numbers actually mean.

Suffix	Meaning
.C2	SPHERE-ROL with diametral clearance less than standard
.CR	Bearing made of stainless steel, resistant to corrosion
.T	Axial lubrication hole (CAMROL) or paired face-to-face mounting or steel cage with Tufftrida treatment.
.DT	Obsolete; refer to the ".T" suffix for equivalent specifications

Illustrate Interpretation Process

Prefix Identification: Identify the bearing type or features from the prefix.
Suffix Interpretation: Decode specifications like clearance and materials from the suffix.
Obsolete Suffix Awareness: Recognize and replace obsolete suffixes with current equivalents.
Designation Clarity: Understand the bearing size and design from the designation.
Nomenclature Reference: Consult nomenclature charts for prefix/suffix meanings.
Special Features Note: Look for suffixes indicating special features or configurations.
Application Matching: Match the decoded part number to application requirements.
Assistance from McGill: Contact McGill for help with complex or specialized bearings.

Organize Information in Tables

The table below serves as a quick reference. It helps you to the prefixes and suffixes in McGill Bearings part numbers.

Prefix	Description
CAMROL	Indicates a cam follower bearing with a cylindrical or tapered bore.
TRAKROL	Indicates a cam follower bearing with a precision needle roller insert.
CAGEROL	Indicates a needle roller bearing with a cage.
SPHERE-ROL	Indicates a spherical roller bearing.
GUIDEROL	Indicates a guide roller bearing.
MULTIROL	Indicates a multi-roller bearing.
MCYRD	Indicates a metric-sized cam follower bearing.

Common Suffixes

Suffix	Description
0	Standard radial clearance for SPHERE-ROL bearings.
10	Standard cage design for CAGEROL bearings.
100	Split cage design for CAGEROL bearings.
20	New design with a spring steel ring instead of a crimped edge (MULTIROL).
30	Old design with a larger diameter inner ring (MULTIROL).
9	Smaller radial clearance between outer ring and flange (CAMROL).
A	No radial oil hole (CAMROL) or tapered bore with adapter, locknut, and lockwasher (SPHERE-ROL).
AL	Aluminum alloy cage or separator.
B	Hexagonal hole in flange instead of a screwdriver slot (CAMROL).
C	All external surfaces chrome-plated (standard bearing).
C2	Radial clearance less than standard (SPHERE-ROL).
C3	Radial clearance greater than standard (SPHERE-ROL).
C4	Radial clearance greater than C3 (SPHERE-ROL).
CL	Radial clearance less than C2 (SPHERE-ROL).
CP	Outer ring chrome-plated, other exposed surfaces cadmium-plated (standard bearing).
CR	Stainless steel (corrosion-resistant).
CU	Copper alloy cage or separator.
D	Precision matched needle roller bearing in sets (number indicates set quantity).
DB	Obsolete, see “R”.
DF	Obsolete, see “U”.
DO	General-purpose double-row bearing.
E	End clearance for shaft expansion (SPHERE-ROL).
F	Lubrication hole in outer ring (airframe bearing) or single-side seal (obsolete).
FF	Double-side seal (obsolete).
FFG	Double-side seal with outer ring groove and snap ring (obsolete).
FG	Single-side seal with snap ring and groove (obsolete).
FG-1	Single-side seal with snap ring and groove on the same side as the seal (obsolete).
G	Outer ring groove and snap ring (obsolete) or larger outer diameter of inner ring (number indicates increment).
GH	Hooked snap ring and outer ring groove (obsolete).
GO	Outer ring groove only (obsolete).
J	Outer ring and corner chrome-plated, other exposed surfaces cadmium-plated (airframe bearing).
K	Tapered bore (1:12) for SPHERE-ROL bearings.
KE	Tapered bore with expansion characteristics (SPHERE-ROL).
KM	K-Monel metal.
LH	Left-hand thread (CAMROL).
M	Maximum load capacity or loading slot type ball bearing.
N	Narrow type.
NS	Non-separable (self-contained) bearing.
P	All external surfaces cadmium-plated (standard bearing) or exposed surfaces cadmium-plated (airframe bearing).
PC	Synthetic cage or separator.
PEN	Black oxide finish.
PT	Synthetic tire mounted on outer ring diameter.
R	Radially assembled Gurney type bearing (obsolete) or paired back-to-back mounting.
RS	Single-side seal (lip facing outward) for CAGEROL or GUIDEROL bearings.
RSS	Double-side seal (lip facing outward) for CAGEROL or GUIDEROL bearings.
S	Special design or tolerance range bearing.
SL	Sealed, with tapered bore only on the large hole side (SPHERE-ROL).
SR	Pillow block series, stabilizing ring (part of pillow block assembly).
SRS	Double-side seal (one lip facing inward, one facing outward) for CAGEROL or GUIDEROL bearings.
SS	Double-side seal (lip facing inward) for CAGEROL or GUIDEROL bearings or double-side sealed SPHERE-ROL bearings.
T	Axial lubrication hole (CAMROL) or paired face-to-face mounting or steel cage with Tufftrida treatment.
U	Paired face-to-face mounting.
UNA	Unassembled bearing, including all components.
W	Wide type.
W/O	Without standard components (e.g., seals).
W20	Lubrication hole in outer ring diameter (SPHERE-ROL).
W22	Outer ring diameter size selected (SPHERE-ROL).
Y	Inner ring with annular lubrication groove and hole (airframe bearing).
Z	Outer ring with annular lubrication groove and hole (airframe bearing).
+E	Eccentric sleeve pressed onto shaft (CAMROL).
+L	Lubri-Disc feature (CAMROL).
AN	Large locknut (see “N” prefix) for SPHERE-ROL.
ASMO	Self-aligning, single-row, outer ring and roller assembly with spherical outer diameter (MULTIROL).
B	Pillow block ball bearing (manufactured for Browning).
BA	Single-row angular contact ball bearing with chamfered outer ring, contact angle 22° to 32°.
BB	Special ball bearing.
BC	Single-row radial ball bearing with chamfered outer ring, non-loading slot type.
BH	Single-row radial ball bearing with chamfered outer ring.
BM	Pillow block ball bearing (manufactured for T.B. Wood).
BN	Single-row angular contact ball bearing with chamfered outer ring, contact angle 10° to 22°.
BT	Single-row angular contact ball bearing with chamfered outer ring, contact angle 32° to 45°.
C+	Outer ring with crowned radius (CAMROL).
CF	Full complement roller bearing with integral shaft (CAMROL).
RN	Cylindrical roller bearing with two-lip inner ring, cylindrical outer ring, rollers, and cage, separable outer ring.
RP	Two-piece cage, single-row, stamped.
RS	Self-contained, single-row, outer ring and roller assembly (MULTIROL) or aviation type (CAMROL).
RT	Aviation type (CAMROL).
RU	Cylindrical roller bearing with two-lip outer ring, cylindrical inner ring, rollers, and cage, separable inner ring.
S	Tapered adapter (SPHERE-ROL) or cast steel housing (pillow block series).
SAP	Split housing with SPHERE-ROL bearing (cast iron housing).
SB	Single-row spherical roller bearing (SPHERE-ROL).
SC	Pillow block ball bearing (manufactured for Dodge).
SDAF	Heavy-duty split housing with SPHERE-ROL bearing (cast iron housing).
SE	Special “MO” and related “MI” bearings (including all solid lip-type bearings).
SEE	SPHERE-ROL with eccentric locknut for pillow block mounting.
SFBA	SPHERE-ROL adapter mounted in flange pillow block.
SFEE	Reserved.
SK	Special design bearings or components.
SMO	MULTIROL with spherical outer diameter.
SNW	Complete tapered adapter assembly (sleeve, nut, lockwasher) for SPHERE-ROL.
SPBA	SPHERE-ROL adapter mounted in base pillow block.
SPBE	SPHERE-ROL with eccentric locknut, mounted in base pillow block.
SR	Special RS, RD, OS

Special Cases and Additional Designations

Additional Characters and Their Meanings

Additional Characters	Meaning
+E	CAMROL with eccentric bushing on stem
+L	CAMROL with lubrication disc feature
AN	SPHERE-ROL with large locknut
ASMO	MULTIROL single-row, self-aligning with spherical housing

Practical Applications of the Part Number System

Guide on Selecting the Right Bearing

To select the right bearing, refer to part numbers for key specs:

Identify prefix for bearing type.
Consult suffix for specific features like clearance or materials.
Match designation to application needs.
Use additional characters for unique features.
Consult McGill's resources for detailed guidance.

Provide Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes

Common Errors in Interpreting Part Numbers	How to Avoid These Errors
Mistaking prefixes and suffixes	Familiarize yourself with the current nomenclature charts provided by McGill.
Using obsolete suffixes without checking updates	Regularly check for updates or changes in the part number system.
Ignoring clearance and material specifications	Pay close attention to suffixes that indicate clearance (e.g., .C2, .C3) and material types (e.g., .CR for stainless steel).
Confusing similar part numbers	Double-check each character in the part number to ensure accuracy.
Not consulting for unique features	Use additional characters (e.g., +E, +L, AN, ASMO) as a guide for special features and consult McGill's documentation for detailed explanations.

Benefits and Innovations of McGill Bearings

Highlight Company Innovations

In 1937, McGill invented the needle bearing cam follower, which marked a milestone for precision control. This innovation spurred advancements in aerospace, where spherical bearings now provide self-aligning support and reduced friction, enhancing performance and reliability in critical applications.

Emphasize Quality and Performance

McGill Bearings cut operating costs by enhancing reliability and reducing friction. They ease installation with precise fit and design, lower maintenance needs through durable materials, and minimize downtime.

Lab tests show CAMROL bearings lasting up to 24 times longer than competitors, demonstrating superior longevity.

Showcase Product Range

McGill Bearings offers a range of products. CAMROL® is for precision control, TRAKROL® is for linear motion, and CAGEROL® is for heavy loads. GUIDEROL® is for guidance, and SPHERE-ROL® for self-aligning capabilities. These products boost operating efficiencies in industries like automotive, aerospace, and construction by ensuring smooth operation, reduced maintenance, and increased reliability.

Conclusion

Maintain McGill Bearings with regular inspections, proper lubrication, and alignment checks. This prolongs equipment life and enhances performance. For alternatives, consider LILY Bearing, offering comparable reliability—contact them for consultation.

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