cletus141

My 91 has 217k and it started making some gnarly noise. Searching here, it seemed like I had a broken piston skirt. Pulled the pan today. No chunks, but some shavings. The rod nearest the radiator (#1 or #6?) is rather loose. Other 5 a little play. Crank seems tight though. Can I replace the bearings without having the crank ground? Haven't pulled the rod cap yet. Just need it back on the road. Not really concerned about longevity as I got it for $500 anyway.

ijeeep

I've done it after inspecting measuring and plasti-gauageing everything to make sure it wouldn't be for waste but that's just me. YMMV.

cletus141

What's the risk of just slapping new bearings in?

ijeeep

In my engine the only risk was less bearing service life than a brand new rebuild. The bearings were worn and the crank showed some wear. Rolled in a fresh set of bearings and plasti gaged them. The clearance checked out on the loose side but within spec. Good enough for me and back to work on Monday morning. Threw in a new oil pump while I was at it.

cletus141

How long did they last you?

ijeeep

​​​​​​Couple years. Then I sold it ( beater car) The rest of the jeeping season, then I rebuilt it.

The condition of the main and rod journals is just as important and their size. The clearance of the mains and rods need to be at least a hair less than factory max wear limits and so does the oil pressure for this to work right. When I've done it , it was to extend the life of the vehicles or to get by until proper overhauls could be performed.

cletus141

That's where i am at. Put it back together until I can locate a decent deal on a used motor

dave1123

As long as the journal isn't scored, you can get by with the same sized bearing....for a while. Also don't go rodding it. Heavy loads could wipe it out.