Excellent work Peter in clarifying the two different versions of beta front strut thrust bearing arrangements and providing a definitive photographic record of each along with an accompanying explanation. I think this thread is very nearly finally complete and resolved!
Just to clarify, am I correct in assuming that the aftermarket replacement SKF needle roller thrust bearing itself (SKF AXK 4060 with 60mm OD and 40mm ID dimensions), can only be used as a removable replacement bearing component with the thrust bearing arrangement in the second (lower) of the two photos in your reply #39, showing the lower supporting washer with a centre flange to locate it into the strut upper seat?
From your description the thrust bearing assembly in the first version, (first or upper photo), may be more than just an easily separated snug press fit into the top support washer with the 6 locating lugs and therefore not a serviceable replacement bearing? The Lancia original part number 82303013 thrust bearing part "kit" comes supplied with the bearing already mounted inside the top washer with 6 locating lugs as well as the lower thrust wafer thin flat washer and rubber seal, but not the lower flanged washer.
If that is the case, I may need to return the two replacement needle roller thrust bearings if they cannot readily be fitted into the top washer support housing, should the need arise in future. Not good news if that is the case for other Beta owners, with the first photo thrust bearing arrangement, searching for a replacement needle roller thrust bearing solution, given the scarcity of the Lancia OE parts, specifically #82303013 for the first version and whatever the Lancia part number is for the second thrust bearing version (Lancia OE part # 82372832?).
It also underscores the need to NOT leave the Beta front strut needle roller thrust bearings unserviced for too long, (cleaned and regreased), such that any lubricating (preferably) waterproof grease goes so hard and dry as to lose all of its lubricating qualities, resulting in the bearing needle rollers eventually being ground into a paste and causing the steering to become very heavy and difficult to drive. Because sourcing a replacement solution could well prove difficult!
Andrew
