Abstract: A self-aligning bearing assembly particularly suited for use in a fractional horsepower electric motor includes a bearing having a partially spherical outer surface and a central hole for rotatably journaling a shaft therein. A housing defining a generally cylindrical opening having an internal surface which is radially spaced from the bearing, also defines a bearing seat adjacent to and conforming in shape with a portion of the outer surface of the bearing. The housing further includes a lip extending radially inward from the internal surface of the cylindrical opening. A spring bearing retainer of resilient flexible sheet-like material and having a generally planar body is inserted into the cylindrical opening. The retainer includes a plurality of radially deformable projections which extend outwardly from the body and has a central aperture for engagement with a second portion of the outer surface of the bearing.