Crank bearings

[Stag therapy]

I attached my engine to a stand this weekend and intend to tart up the various bits and pieces and to remove the oily dirt and other crud from the exterior of the block.

It occurred to me that while the engine is out, it might be worth checking the bearings. I should add that I couldn't hear any rumblings the last time the engine was run, but given the engine is out, if the bearings need to be replaced, it could be better to get it done now.

Are there any signs/marks I could look for to see if the bearings are in need of replaement, or are showing signs of wear? If so, are there any particular bearings to look at?

Baz

[jleyton]

Hi Baz,

I've just replaced my big ends, main bearings and thrust washers although, unlike you, I didn't have the luxury of having the engine out of the car - having to do it, lying on my back, from underneath instead.

Anyway, as yours is out, I would have thought it was the ideal opportunity to check things out. I can only talk with experience about the bottom end - you may get others come on here with advice about things like water pump and jackshaft bearings as well as the top end.

As for the crank, it should all be pretty straightforward with the engine out. Remove the sump and then inspect big ends and mains. In the ROM there are very specific measurements for taper and ovality of the pins/journals and also for end float on the crank which you can adjust with different thrust washers. Ideally you don't want to see any grooving or ridges on the crank and, if that's the case and your taper and ovality are ok then it's simply a case or replacing the shells.

One small word of advice is that you'll need to order two sets of big ends.

You might also want to check out your oil pump which is a doddle to remove and dismantle and for which, again, in the ROM, there are a number of very simple but very precise measurements for you to check.

Good luck and, if all turns out ok, it'll be one less thing you have to worry about for the future

Cheers

Julian