If you've found a source which says no axial load I'd be interested in a link.
Me too. Ive been looking at the info from the bearing manufactures SFK,NSK etc and they all say the same thing, I wasnt going to get in to here but what the Hell. deep groove are the fastest but provide low axial resistance (when compared to tapered or AC), if they couldnt take any axial load then the shaft and housing would move independantly No.....

Ross,
When you've got some more info it would make a good post to see your spindle design (post#20). I cheated and bought ready made, but would be interested to see where you're at. To make it accurate, well balanced, smooth, quiet, durable, and run at very high speed has it's challenges!
I plan to, just got a bit more research to do. Making it accurate and smooth seems to mean throwing £££££ at it ( mulitple angular contact with different contact angles, correct Diameter and spacing for ridigity with oil/air mist lubrication, easy) :whistling: so thats why I was looking at a modified deep groove set up to reduce cost as after all it would be a low use DIY spindle