Abstract: A thin roller thrust bearing assembly including first and second annular races, an annular roller separator and a plurality of rolling elements is provided with a grease retained assembly, an outer banding cup or a combination thereof. In a purely grease retained assembly, a coating of tacky grease secures together first and second annular races with an annular roller separator and a plurality of rolling elements retained therebetween. The grease retained assembly provides a stable package for shipping and handling of the bearing. Alternately, an outer banding cup secures the first annular race and the annular roller separator with the rolling elements retained therebetween. In this case, the second annular race is secured to the annular roller separator and the rolling elements with a coating of tacky grease. Alternately, the outer banding cup encompasses both the first and second annular races with an annular roller separator and a plurality of rolling elements retained therebetween.