Choosing Bearings for Your RC Vehicle: Rubber or Metal Covers? (Video Guide)

Start with bearings that fit your exact RC model. Bearings are small, round parts that help wheels and other moving parts turn smoothly. Once you know which bearings fit, choose the type of cover that suits where you drive.

This guide from J-M SUPPLIES RC Parts Store explains rubber and metal covers, shows the original video and helps you check a bearing kit before you order.

What is the difference between rubber and metal covers?

The covers around a bearing help keep dirt out and oil or grease in. How a cover is made affects how well it blocks dirt and how easily the bearing turns.

Bearings with rubber covers

Rubber covers can be a useful choice when keeping dirt and moisture out matters, such as when driving off-road. Some covers touch the ring around the bearing's center hole. Others leave a small gap.

A cover that touches the ring can help keep more dirt out, but may make the bearing slightly harder to turn. Do not assume all rubber covers work the same way or make a bearing waterproof. Check the product details and your vehicle's instructions before driving in wet conditions.

Bearings with metal covers

Metal covers usually leave a small gap around the center hole. This can help the bearing turn easily and may suit cleaner roads or tracks. Fine dirt and water can still get through the gap.

Neither type of cover guarantees more speed or longer life. The right size, correct oil or grease, proper care and driving conditions also matter. Always follow the instructions for your vehicle and the specific bearings you buy.

Watch the bearing guide

Watch the original video, then use the steps below to check which bearings fit your vehicle.

How to choose bearings that fit

1. Find your exact model. Write down the maker, full model name, version and model number from the box or manual. Similar names or looks do not mean two vehicles use the same parts.
2. Check the parts list in your manual. Find the bearings you need and their measurements: the distance across the center hole, the distance across the outside and the thickness. Check whether the sizes are in millimeters or inches.
3. Open the page for your exact RC model. Match its model name and number to your vehicle. Then check the bearing kit's notes, type of cover and what is included.
4. Ask before you order if anything is unclear. A different version of the vehicle, or parts you have changed, may need different bearings. If the manual and kit details do not agree, get help first.

Simple bearing care

• Follow the maker's instructions for checking, cleaning and adding oil or grease.
• Check for a rough feel, sticking, rust or too much wobble. Check sooner after driving through dirt or water.
• Do not remove covers or wash out the oil or grease unless the bearing's care instructions allow it.
• Replace damaged bearings. If a part gets stuck or does not turn freely, find the cause before driving again.

RC bearing questions

Do rubber covers make bearings waterproof?

No. A rubber cover alone is not proof that a bearing is waterproof. Read the product details and your vehicle's instructions before using it in wet conditions.

Will metal covers make my RC vehicle faster?

Not necessarily. A cover that does not rub against the center ring can help a bearing turn easily. Your vehicle's speed also depends on the bearings' size and condition, the oil or grease used and other moving parts.

Will a kit for a similar RC model fit mine?

Do not assume it will. Check your exact model, version and model number against the model page and kit details. A similar name or body does not prove that the parts fit.

Does one bearing kit replace every bearing in my vehicle?

Check what is and is not in the kit, then compare it with the parts list in your manual. A kit may not include bearings for extra parts you have added or every part of the vehicle.

For more help before you buy, read our answers to common RC product questions.