Ball Bearing (BB) Ball bearings are engineered to throw the knuckle weight against specially hardened steel raceways, which ride on the bearing surfaces. The one-piece cup protects the bearings from moisture and dust. The cup supports no weight so it is not subjected to functional friction, pressure or wear. Lateral wear is minimized because the pin is held against thrust by the hardened steel top and bottom raceways. The bearing units are securely press-fit to the leaf knuckle to prevent loss when the hinge is disassembled.