The critical measurement on a 216 is connecting rod clearance, adjusted with shims between the rod cap and the rod. Since the bearing material is integral with the rod, it's not a simple matter of changing bearings like on the 54-up engines. There's nothing wrong with a properly set up 216 babbit-rod engine, just don't try long stretches at high speed and/or heavy loads.

A good inside and out cleanup, including a new rear crankshaft seal, should put you back on the road for some time to come, assuming the piston rings and bearing clearances are good.
Jerry

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