Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snow Thrower - Craftsman 536906001, 6Hp Tecumseh, 26 inch, shaft diameters, correct component

Question
Question about bearings for the Hex shaft. Craftsman has the microfiche IPL shows Bearing, Rotor for Hex shaft as 53266MA, will more common (cheaper) 334163MA as seen in newer Craftsman and Murray Snowthrowers substitute match? The 53266MA is listed at $34 each while 334163MA is $4.50 each. I'm unable to find any guidance on-line and don't see details on Hex shaft diameters. I'm willing to try if there is any reasonable confidence the Hex shafts are all the same diameter. I'd appreciate your thoughts. Thanks in advance.

Answer
Hello Phil:

>>To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action?sid=PSHx20080114x00001 and Enter the Model Numbers 536906001 and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section Near the Bottom Left.
>>I Always Suggest you Replace Bad Components with the Correct Component unless you have a Replacement that is Identical. For Bearings, you can Usually Locate a Number on the Bearing Race. With these Numbers you can Locate a Bearing that will Interchange. This is Usually the Same Bearing, just Not the Same Bearing Numbers Used by the Units OEM. Example: the 53266MA Bearing May be a "BCA" Bearing #275654 and ect..
>>If you can Locate the Numbers on the Bearing and Send them to me; I May be Able to Locate a Replacement that is Cheaper. I had the Bearing Numbers Listed for Most of the Murray/Sears Snow Units, but the 53266MA is Not a Bearing I have had to Replace with a Major Name Brand Bearing.  
>>According to my References, the 53266MA and the 334163MA are for Different Size Shafts.
>>Please, Do Not Hesitate, If you Hit a Snag, if I Missed Something or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

>>PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John