Machining the rods for the insert bearings is a pretty straightforward operation. It involves getting the rod centered up on either a lathe faceplate or a Bridgeport mill, and opening up the big end to a slightly larger hole. This eliminates the Babbit, and bores the steel rod out big enough for an insert bearing to be fitted. It's also necessary to hand-file a couple of notches for the anti-rotate tabs on the replacement bearings. Nothing changes about the oiling, as the original dipper setup stays put. The bearing is drilled and grooved just like the Babbit-filled rod was, so lubrication stays the same. From the outside, it's impossible to see the modification. You'd have to pull a rod cap to see the new bearing. The bearings are available in undersizes, instead of having to buy a rod with different-diameter babbit if you regrind the crankshaft- - - - -if you can find one! The shop where I worked when I did the modification just closed down, so I can't reccomend anyone now!
Jerry
Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 09/11/2009 12:58 PM.
