Installing Main Crankshaft Bearings

[Dadandson]

Well, the block has been boiled, magnafluxed, bored .040 over and thoroughly cleaned. I have replaced all the oil gallery plugs and freeze plugs and I am ready to start to assemble. The crank has been ground .010 under, with nice smooth radii, and my ACL -.010 bearings arrived from Winners Circle. I know I need allot of engine assembly lube on everything. Is installing the main bearings that straight forward or are there some hints, tricks or secrets I need to know before I begin? Any and all input is welcome. Thanks

 

[Dadandson]

Plastigage?

 

[2091351]

Cleanliness is next to godliness.

I have had great success lightly cleaning the bearings themselves and where they fit on the Rods with Scotchbrite and Brake clean before installing. I feel that it removes ALL of the manufacturing grit/abrasives.

You can’t be clean enough; heck a White Room would be perfect!! <Grin>

Steve

 

[scubabatdan]

Plastigage?

How to use plastigauge before finishing assembly as a final check, or when you suspect worn bearings (as in my case).

www.ehow.com/how_2142943_use-plastigage-measure-clearances.html

Hope this helps,
Dan

 

[MikeP]

I like to use it twice on each journal, to make sure they are consistantly round. Had one crank that was off by a couple .001s. So do it onece, rotate 90 degrees, and do again. You should always start with a completely dry crank and bearings I was taught so that any thin film doesn't throw off the reading. I like to wipe the crushed remains off with laquer thinner too just to be safe.