When the wheel bearing was replaced on my LS430 after the raccoon mishap, I asked for the old one. I thought I'd take it apart, buy 2 new bearings, and put it back together and use it for a spare should I ever need one.
Well, I was quite shocked when I got the hub apart. Instead of finding a couple of bearing units, it's was different. The balls themselves sit in Delrin retainers rings. And the "race" is machined right into the hub. And the retainers sit inside the hub packed with grease. This was very surprising to me. But at the same time, I see room for opportunity. Like replacing the ball bearings with ceramic ones.
I don't see any reason why it can't be done, since ceramic bearings are even harder than steel bearings. Cost would be about $10 a ball I think..and there's 22 balls. Even at that price, it's significantly cheaper than a new one. And should far exceed the life of regular bearings.
Any comments?