VCU bearings review

Hi chaps,

Wanted to offer my feelings on VCU bearings.

Since I never seem to be out from under the freelander I have replaced the VCU bearings again and have used most types across a few hippos.

Britpart:

Bearings have no id
Metal body - ok
Rubber - hard, to hard

Failed very quickly causing a rumble off acc and general vibration worst at 50+ but got me over the worst of the snow

GKN

Bearings - show gkn id
Metal body - good as new
Rubber - soft but hold shape

Lasted until I sold the last hippo no problems to report, but I only did about 5k before sale of old L series (should have kept it)

All makes

Bearings - show BIS marking
Metal body - well protected with a stone chip like finish
Rubber - soft but hold shape well feel like OE

Just fitted today and they have got rid of the nasty rumble and vibration of the failed britpart bearings. It's my feeling that the softness of the rubber is as important as the bearings.


Didn't want expensive bearings as will likely renew the VCU within a year or so, I will report back on how the allmake bearings last, so far so good.

Hope it help some one.

Britpart now has at least a years warranty on their products. If anyone is dissatisfied with their products, give their Sales Dept. a call-they were very helpful when I had a problem and sorted it quickly and without charge.
It's no good moaning on here first without speaking to them.

**
I have no affiliation with Britpart or their suppliers. I have used their products for many years and have found them to be fine. Unlike original LR parts which have failed and the Main Stealers have been most unhelpful in sorting things out.
Examples:
Genuine P38 water pump-disintegrated after just over 2000 miles...no replacement or refund from LR. According to them "Normal wear & tear"

Genuine Classic radiator-header tank cracked within 8 months....LR stated that it was "Out of warranty"...replaced with aftermarket unit which was still working fine when I sold the car on 4 years later.

Just remember that LR do not manufacture over 95% of the components-they buy them in from all over the world using a multitude of suppliers

I think you may have misinterpreted my meeting here.

I use britparts for some things as well, brake discs, ujs etc

I was simply offering my experience and whilst it's good to know britpart are stepping up after sales care the fact remains that the rubber on the VCU bearings is much to hard.

But I get what you are saying Brit part gets a bad name for no reason a lot of the time.

Cheers