So I had to do the rear wheel bearings on my 1998 Toyota 4Runner and bought a Timken part from Rockauto because it's a reputable source. Opened the box and noticed the two retainers and the bearing is branded Naichi. It doesn't seem like maybe it was a returned part because both boxes were like that and the chances of a return swap would be low considering it was on both.
Naichi is a pretty reputable brand and I was tight on time, so I've installed the parts already. But I'm wondering if it's typical for aftermarket parts makers to simple repackage parts from another manufacturer? I've also noticed this on some Moog and Raybestos ball joints, of which were actually Sankei 555.
I bought Timken because of the brand, but only to find that I got something else. I'm not dissapointed that I got a Naichi, but it brings about the question...can you even really trust aftermarket parts anymore? It seems if I am choosing a part and decide based on the manufacturer's reputation, it's somewhat meaningless.
Naichi is a pretty reputable brand and I was tight on time, so I've installed the parts already. But I'm wondering if it's typical for aftermarket parts makers to simple repackage parts from another manufacturer? I've also noticed this on some Moog and Raybestos ball joints, of which were actually Sankei 555.
I bought Timken because of the brand, but only to find that I got something else. I'm not dissapointed that I got a Naichi, but it brings about the question...can you even really trust aftermarket parts anymore? It seems if I am choosing a part and decide based on the manufacturer's reputation, it's somewhat meaningless.