So what other mechanical considerations
favor the use of all roller bearings?
Bob Chaparro
The main advantage was reduced labor costs (frequent inspection and
lubrication) and a statistically smaller
likelihood of derailments due to journal bearing failure. Railroads were
reluctant to buy them because of their
higher installation costs and as someone mentioned, the benefits mostly
accrued to other railroads. Some
railroads continued to buy plain bearings on new cars until it was
finally banned.
