Timken's reputation is very good. The seals looked and felt like quality parts. This type of axle lubricates the bearings with gear lube from the differential, they bearings are not packed in grease. Good seals are required for trouble free operation.

Which is better SKF or Timken?

With that said the bigger, harder to replace, heavier loaded bearing are Timken. SKF bearings are generally used on smaller quicker to replace applications. I never asked why, just always assumed the Timken is a better bearing.

Are Timken and SKF the same?

Timken bearings are SKF bearings.