The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Scratched main bearing

I accidentally scratched one of my new main bearings. It goes across the bearing about 7/16" and seems "deep". Is there a way to fix it? What will happen if I try to use it?

Are they poured babbet bearings or inserts?

If they are babbet bearings, it can be fixed, but you have to find someone that still does that kind of work near you.

If they are inserts, a new set of main bearings is a small price to pay for piece of mind. There is no way to repair it, so if it were me, I'd replace it.

There is one thing a scratch in a bearing is good at, and that is collecting debris. And a little debris can do a lot of damage quick.

Probably nothing would happen if you used it, but you would always worry about it. These old timers are for fun and a sense of satisfaction. Anything that you might worry about later, fix it.

46farmtruck,

Think of the scratch as a extra oil groove you put in yourself. If you remove any material that sticks UP then the bearing will be fine...in my unprofessional opinion.

Stuart

I agree with Atomarc. That was a great explanation too! Somehow I think that he like I have been through this at one time!

I would like to see it before giving advice. Got a picture?
Scott

just make sure theres no high spots they used to have bearing scrapers but you can use a razer knife to cut the high spots doun on the bearing if there is any

i have one! It's called a babbit bearing knife. It looks like a triangle from the top, with three sharp edges running to the handle like a three way knife. I use it to open up braided hoses to ease slipping over hose bungs. I asked on old timer at a shop Iworked at and he told me the name. He said it was used originally for shaving a babbit bearing to achieve proper clearance.