Prep'n Engine - pulling pan and valve cover, what the change?

[jdbubb at verizon.net (Dan Bubb)]

I think it's worth it to take a look at the bearings.
The bearings are a series of thin coatings over a steel shell so if they're wearing you'll see some color variations in the areas where one thin layer is worn away. If you see copper then they are definitely trash and the crank bearing journals may have some minor scoring. If the crank looks good and the shells don't show too much wear then generally you can replace them with new stock sized bearings. Better yet to plastigage them just to be sure.
Make sure to check the crank thrust bearings and crank end play. It's possible for these to be totally worn out with the rest of the bearings in good condition.
And again, get new rod bolts if you disassemble them.
Dan

From: "Cory Langford" <Cory_Langford@bcit.ca>
Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2006 1:55 PM


> Thanks,
> 
> What about the rod bearings then.  Is it worth it to just to simply 
> replace the bearings on spec (just because it is easy now)?  I am assuming 
> there is no special tools needed, just a torque wrench.
> 
> 
> Cory Langford
> '86 Roc turbo, 
> '78 Roc turbo - RIP,
> '81S Roc,
> '65 Ghia Coupe,
> 95 Eurovan, etc, etc... :)
> "Dan Bubb" <jdbubb@verizon.net> wrote on 04/11/2006 10:08:11 AM:
> 
>> There are no separate bearings for the camshaft, it rides directly 
>> in the head.
>> If you pull the pan remember that the rod bolts should be used only 
>> once, so if you're planning on looking at the bearings also plan on 
>> buying new rod bolts. Best bet is to replace the front and rear main
>> seals while you have the pan off.
>> Use one of those spiffy new rubber pan gaskets during reassembly.
>> 
>> 
>