Main Bearings and Connecting Rod Bearings

Cleaning

Bearings that are to be reused should be identified so they can be installed in their original locations.

Clean the bearing inserts and caps thoroughly in solvent, and dry them with compressed air. Do not scrape gum or varnish deposits from the bearing shells.

Inspection

 CAUTION: In the event of bearing failure, the oil cooler (6A642) and turbocharger must be disassembled and the tube bundle must be replaced.

Inspect each bearing carefully. Bearings that have a scored, chipped or worn surface should be replaced. Typical examples of unsatisfactory bearings and their causes are shown in the illustration. The copper lead bearing base may be visible through the bearing overlay. If the base showing is less than 20 percent of the total area, the bearing is not excessively worn. It is not necessary to replace the bearing if the bearing clearance is within recommended limits. Check the clearance of bearings that appear to be satisfactory with Plastigage® D81L-6002-B or equivalent. Refer to Fitting Main Bearings or Connecting Rod Bearings with Plastigage® in the Cleaning and Inspection portion of this section.