This period was marked by an almost insatiable demand for Federal-Mogul’s products. The company’s engine bearings and motorboat propellers became star performers in the ever-changing product lineup. In addition, Federal-Mogul acquired other manufacturing companies, diversified operations and increased output. These combined efforts catapulted Federal-Mogul onto the FORTUNE 500 list and a new level of success.

	Important dates:
	1941 Federal-Mogul became the world’s largest manufacturer of motorboat propellers.
	1947 The company opened a new research facility in Ann Arbor, Michigan, as total sales reached $85 million and employment hit 6,200.
	1949 Federal-Mogul celebrated its 50th anniversary.
	1955 The company merged with the Bower Roller Bearing Company — a producer of straight and tapered roller bearings — and became Federal-Mogul-Bower Bearings, Inc.
	1956 This newly formed entity debuted on the FORTUNE 500 list at number 350 as total sales reached $100 million. Acquisitions in this time period included: Hyde Windlass Co., National Formetal Co., Bearings Company of America, National Motor Bearing Co., National Seal Co. and Arrowhead Rubber Co.