Bearing Finder: Search Bearings by Dimensions

Search Our Bearing Inventory by Size or Part Number

The Central Surplus Bearing Finder searches the bearings we have on the shelf and shows you the closest matches to what you enter. Search by the number stamped on the race, by measured dimensions, or both. Every field is optional, so start with whatever information you have.

A Search Tool, Not a Formal Cross Reference

The Bearing Finder compares your part number, dimensions, and bearing type against our inventory and lists the closest results it can find. It does not confirm that one manufacturer’s bearing is an approved replacement for another. Two bearings with the same bore, outside diameter, and width can still differ in seals, internal clearance, precision class, cage design, or load rating. Treat the results as a starting point, and check the full specifications on the product page against your application before you order. If you need a confirmed interchange, contact our team or the bearing manufacturer.

How to Search by Part Number

Most bearings carry a part number on the outer race or the shield. Type it in exactly as you see it. Dashes, dots, and spaces don’t affect the results, so 6205-2RS, 6205 2RS, and 62052RS are the same search. Adding the brand narrows the search, but it isn’t required. If we don’t stock that exact number, search by dimensions instead to see bearings of a similar size.

Bearing numbers follow a pattern that helps when only part of a stamp is readable. In a common deep groove ball bearing like the 6205, the first digit indicates the bearing type, the second indicates the series, and the last two digits indicate bore size. For bore codes 04 and higher, multiply by five to get the bore in millimeters, so a 6205 has a 25 mm bore. Suffixes describe features. ZZ or 2Z usually means metal shields on both sides, and 2RS usually means rubber seals on both sides, though each manufacturer uses its own codes. A C3 suffix means greater internal clearance than standard, which matters in high-heat or high-speed applications.

How to Measure a Bearing

If the number is gone, measurements will get you close. Use a set of calipers and record three dimensions: the bore (inside diameter), the outside diameter, and the width. Measure across the widest point of each, and take a couple of readings to account for wear. Enter your numbers in millimeters or inches and the tool converts them automatically. Any single dimension will start a search, but all three give you the most focused results.

Selecting the bearing type also helps a lot. A deep groove ball bearing and a cylindrical roller bearing can share the same envelope dimensions but are not interchangeable. If you’re unsure of the type, look at the rolling elements. Balls, straight rollers, tapered rollers, barrel-shaped rollers, and thin needles each point to a different family.

Bearing Types We Stock

Central Surplus carries ball bearings (deep groove, angular contact, self-aligning, and thrust), roller bearings (cylindrical, tapered, spherical, needle, and thrust), and mounted units including pillow blocks, flange units, and take-up units. We also stock rod ends, cam followers, linear bearings, and sleeve bushings. Inventory comes in daily from manufacturers, distributors, and plant liquidations, so check back if nothing close is available today. You can also browse the full bearings category.

Why Buy Surplus Bearings

Surplus bearings are often new old stock from major brands at a fraction of distributor pricing. They’re also a reliable source for discontinued and obsolete part numbers that are hard to find through standard supply channels. For maintenance teams keeping older equipment running, that can mean the difference between a same-day repair and a multi-week wait on a backorder. Orders ship same day with free shipping.

Need Help Confirming a Bearing?

If the finder doesn’t turn up what you need, or you’d like a second look at a result before ordering, our team can help. Send us the part number, a photo of the bearing, or your measurements through the Find Your Part page and we’ll help identify it and check what we can source. You can also call us at 585-295-7880.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bearing Finder a cross-reference tool?
No. It searches our inventory for bearings that are close to the part number or dimensions you enter. It doesn’t verify that a bearing from one brand is an approved substitute for another. Use the results to narrow your search, then confirm the specs before ordering.

Are bearings from different brands interchangeable?
Sometimes, but not always. Many standard bearings follow ISO dimensional standards, so a 6205 from one maker typically shares the same bore, OD, and width as a 6205 from another. Seals, clearance, precision class, cage design, and materials can still differ, so check those details against your application before substituting.

What does 2RS mean on a bearing?
It generally means the bearing has rubber seals on both sides to keep out dirt and moisture and hold in grease. Other brands use their own codes, such as 2RS1, DDU, LLU, or 2RSR, and seal designs vary between them.

What’s the difference between ZZ and 2RS?
ZZ bearings have metal shields, which allow higher speeds but offer less protection from contaminants. 2RS bearings have rubber seals that protect better but create slightly more friction.

How do I find a bearing with no visible part number?
Measure the bore, outside diameter, and width with calipers, identify the bearing type, and enter those details in the finder above to see what we have in a similar size.

Do you sell discontinued bearings?
Often, yes. Surplus inventory regularly includes obsolete and hard-to-find part numbers. If it isn’t listed, contact us and we’ll search for it.