American Metal Bearing

Over a century of American Engineering & Manufacturing

At AMB, we proudly carry forward a legacy of American manufacturing excellence. With over 100 years of industry experience, we are dedicated to delivering superior quality and precision in every product we make. From our early beginnings to our role in national defense today, our legacy stands as a testament to the enduring values of excellence and reliability that continue to drive us forward.

Humble Beginnings

American Metal Bearing Company (AMB) began its journey in 1921 when Mr. Wyllis founded the business at the intersection of 3rd Street and Central Avenue in Los Angeles. At the time, AMB’s focus was automotive bearings, serving prominent customers such as Pickwick Stages, today known as Greyhound Bus, and Western Auto Supply Co., a major supplier for Ford Model T connecting rods.

Our founder developed an innovative connecting rod and bearing designed specifically for the legendary Duesenberg race cars. Building on this success, AMB expanded into specialized bearings for Harry Miller racing engines, demonstrating our ability to create precision-engineered components that withstand the extreme demands of competitive racing.

This pioneering spirit established the foundation for AMB’s lasting legacy of exceptional quality, reliability, and performance in bearing manufacturing.

From Underdog to Key Role In World War II

 

The onset of World War II led to significant facility expansions, and we swiftly began fulfilling large scale orders for marine line shaft bearings. Among our initial contributions to the war effort were 50 shipsets of line shaft bearings destined for lend/lease ships bound for England. Throughout the war, we manufactured over 7,000 bearings for cargo and naval vessels. This photo shows just eight of twenty five car loads of AMB’s Weldtite Lineshaft Bearings used in the construction of 531 Victory class ships.

Product Line Expansion

Post World War II, AMB’s products were used on most of the US Navy’s large surface combatant programs. Frigates, destroyers, amphibious transport docks, and nuclear submarines all utilized AMB components within their propulsion systems. AMB had expanded its engineering services and began working with prime contractors for their propulsion system needs. In April of 1973, the company moved from its down Los Angeles location to its current location in Garden Grove. By this time, production of marine bearings for commercial and military applications dominated our sales efforts.

Meeting Modern Day Demands

AMB currently operates out of its 50,000 sqft advanced manufacturing facility in Garden Grove, California. We’re able to provide a full range of design and engineering services, applied research and prototyping, and contract manufacturing services.

 

Martin Rivera

Jul 14, 2026
Full time
$30 - $35 yearly
American Metal Bearing Garden Grove, CA
Welder Position Summary At AMB, Welders play a critical role in the production of propulsion bearings used in U.S. Navy surface ships and submarines. A Welder at AMB is expected to be proficient in GTAW, SMAW, and GMAW processes. This is a hands-on, multi-functional role that also supports assembly and babbitting operations. Day to day, you will be performing weld repairs on castings, assembling large components, and running centrifugal casting of babbitt. As a Welder, you will: • Read and follow drawings, factory documentation, and welding procedures to perform your work correctly. • Take ownership of your work cell — keep it running efficiently, meet deadlines, and make quality your standard. • Weld on copper nickel, nickel copper, stainless, and various grades of cast steel in accordance with established welding procedures. • Perform centrifugal casting operations to produce plain journal bearings. • Support general...
Jul 14, 2026
Full time
$25.00 - $35.00 hourly
American Metal Bearing Garden Grove, CA
We are looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn a skilled trade and grow within a company that invests in its people. No prior experience is necessary. If you have the drive and willingness to learn, we will provide the training and support needed to succeed. At AMB you will develop valuable hands-on skills, have opportunities for continuous growth, and enjoy a stable, long-term career. Position Summary: A CNC Machinist at AMB works hands-on with multi-axis machine tools including bridge mills, horizontal boring mills, horizontal lathes, and vertical lathes. Day to day, you will be running these machines to produce bearing components that go into propulsion systems on U.S. Navy surface ships and submarines. As a CNC Machinist, you will: • Read and follow drawings, work orders, and other documentation to set up your machine, fixtures, and tooling correctly. • Take pride in your work cell — keep it running smoothly, stay on schedule,...