RE: Saito 82a Ceramic Bearing Failure
I replace a lot of bearings for people. I've been doing engine work for about 15 years and picked up a few things along the way. One thing you can try is to install the bearingsas you described then install the drive hub, collet, prop and prop nut. Torque them down as you normally would and then reheat the case with a torch. This will allow the bearings to reseat with the preload that they are normally under. This will usually cure a bearing that is a little tight because it didn't seat correctly.
I know a lot of people who have tried ceramic bearings in boat and plane motors. Some of these guys were national record holders and knew much more about motors than the average modeler. I'd say 99% of them had the type of failure that you experienced. This isn't isolated to RC-Bearings products.
I use Pauls stainless sets whenever they are available. I've had really good luck with them and they are priced very reasonably.