On my 1956 235 3100 Chevy motor, while torquing down the the main caps and using the platic gauge system I found the measurements to be .002". The Factory manual for the 1955 states clearances (Plastic gauge method) not over .0045” not less than .005” New bearing shell clearances should be .003” maximum and .0005” minimum. I also checked in the 56 supplement and it does not give any clearances. I realize that its too tight. I can not even turn the crankshaft.

I talked to the machine shop and they suggested in putting shims or I could do an alignment bore. Any thoughts on this? I am thinking of the alignment bore since i have invested soo much and a couple hundered more is just my guarantee that I did everything possible to have it correct.

Oh what are the two different clearnace for that the book describes? I understand the new bearing clearances but why is the other clearance listed? thanks guys I am getting closer to a finished motor.

"As I lay rubber down the street, I pray for traction I can keep, but if I spin and begin to slide, please dear God protect my sweet ride." -Amen

56 Chevy 3100