SKF to Timken bearing cross reference helps engineers, distributors, and maintenance teams quickly find compatible replacements between two leading global bearing manufacturers. This guide explains how to convert SKF bearing numbers to Timken equivalents, how the interchange works, what to watch out for, and provides practical examples for common bearing series.
1. What Is an SKF to Timken Bearing Cross Reference?
An SKF to Timken bearing cross reference is a conversion list that matches SKF part numbers with Timken-equivalent bearings that share the same internal geometry, dimensions, and performance category.
It enables users to:
- Replace SKF parts with Timken parts during maintenance
- Compare design options for new equipment
- Source alternatives when certain models are out of stock
- Reduce procurement cost without sacrificing performance
Both brands provide high-precision bearings used in automotive, industrial, mining, agriculture, power transmission, and heavy machinery.
2. How Bearing Cross Reference Works
A correct interchange depends on matching the following parameters:
2.1 Boundary Dimensions (Critical)
- Bore diameter (d)
- Outer diameter (D)
- Width (B / C / T)
These must be identical for the bearings to be interchangeable.
2.2 Internal Design
Even if dimensions match, internal geometry may differ:
- Cage design
- Contact angle
- Roller profile
- Clearance options
- Sealing type
Good cross reference considers these design codes.
2.3 Series Standards
Timken and SKF typically follow ISO/JIS standards for:
- Deep groove ball bearings
- Spherical roller bearings
- Tapered roller bearings
- Angular contact ball bearings
This makes interchange possible across most standard types.
3. SKF vs Timken: Key Differences
| Aspect | SKF | Timken |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Strong in ball bearings | Strong in tapered & spherical roller bearings |
| Precision | Excellent | Excellent |
| Global availability | Very wide | Strong in Americas + global distribution |
| Typical applications | Electric motors, pumps, industrial machinery | Heavy industry, automotive, rail, off-highway |
4. Common SKF → Timken Cross Reference Examples
Below are realistic interchange patterns frequently used in the industry.
(Important: Always verify final match using a catalog or application engineer.)
4.1 Deep Groove Ball Bearings
| SKF | Timken (Equivalent) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 6203 | 203PP / 6203-Z | Deep groove ball bearing |
| 6204 | 204PP / 6204-2Z | DG ball bearing |
| 6205 | 205PP / 6205-2Z | DG ball bearing |
| 6305 | 305KD / 6305-ZZ | DG ball bearing |
4.2 Tapered Roller Bearings
| SKF | Timken | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30205 | 30205 | Identical ISO size |
| 32005X | 32005X | Same series |
| 32206 | 32206 | Same boundary dimensions |
| 32305 | 32305 | Heavy-load series |
4.3 Spherical Roller Bearings
| SKF | Timken | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 22208E | 22208CJ | Same bore & OD |
| 22212E | 22212YM | Equivalent performance |
| 22310E | 22310CJ | Heavy-load SRB |
| 23022CC/W33 | 23022YM | Same geometry |
4.4 Angular Contact Ball Bearings
| SKF | Timken | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7205B | 7205WN | 40° contact angle |
| 7210B | 7210WN | High-speed ACBB |
| 7306B | 7306WN | Precision capable |
5. How to Decode SKF and Timken Bearing Numbers
5.1 SKF Code Rules (Simplified)
- 62/63/64/69 = deep groove ball bearing series
- 302/320/322/323 = tapered roller
- 22xx / 23xx / 24xx = spherical roller
- Suffixes:
- ZZ/2Z = metal shields
- 2RS = rubber seals
- C3 = increased clearance
- E/CC/CA = cage & internal design
5.2 Timken Code Rules (Simplified)
- LM/LM or numeric-only = tapered roller bearings
- 200/300/500 series = deep groove & angular contact
- Suffixes:
- PP/KD = shielded
- KRR/KLL = insert bearings
- W/Y/CJ/YM = cage designs for spherical bearings
6. Things to Consider Before Replacing SKF With Timken
✔ Check clearance (C0, C3, C4)
A mismatch may cause noise, heat, or premature failure.
✔ Check sealing option
A 6205-2RS cannot replace a 6205-Z unless the sealing differences are acceptable.
✔ Check load rating
Even if sizes match, dynamic load rating may differ slightly.
✔ Consider lubrication requirements
Some sealed bearings come pre-greased with different base oils.
7. Conclusion
An SKF to Timken bearing cross reference helps sourcing teams reduce downtime, avoid supply shortages, and compare performance across two global bearing leaders.
While many bearings are interchangeable one-to-one, always verify the exact model, clearance, and internal design before finalizing replacement.