Originally Posted by
Doug64
Do 13, 3/16" balls have less surface against the bearing race than 9, 1/4" balls? I don't know the answer to this, but I suspect the difference is not significant.
It's not surface area or the number of balls that matter, rather the size of the balls is most important. Larger balls have a lower approach angle and lose less momentum rolling over surface imperfections (less friction), which also results in slower erosion of bearing and races.
Big balls are what matters - just ask
ole One Ball.