Red Heartbeat

iTrader: (9)

Anyone here ever have a main bearing cap just fall out of an engine? Of all the engines I've built in the last four years I've never had that happen until I disassembled my 408 after it started making odd noises. Normally they are wedged in the block but the 2nd from the front one just fell over when I pulled the bolts out.

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

What do you mean fell over..

Red Heartbeat

iTrader: (9)

There was no friction holding it in place. It is too short to fit snuggly between the rails of the block. I pulled the bolts out and it just rocked over against the counterweights of the crankshaft.

Steve - Race Eng

iTrader: (1)

That main cap is sprung. The cause, possibly detonation related.

You may want to consider having steel caps installed on that block if it is a forced induction or nitrous engine. The alternative is to get a good used cap on there and align bore the block.

Steve

Red Heartbeat

iTrader: (9)

Where do you get steel replacements? Are the originals powdered metal?

Steve - Race Eng

iTrader: (1)

The originals are powdered metal.

Steel caps are available from Pro-Gram Engineering and Callies.

The steel caps need to be fitted to the block via align boring.

Steve

Red Heartbeat

iTrader: (9)

I found some but they must be made of gold at $550 a set. The boss says they're made out of that new exotic material UNOBTAINIUM.

Steve - Race Eng

iTrader: (1)

You should be able to find a set for around $500 racer net. Try some of the sponsors like Thunder Racing.

I warn you that the main expense is the installation. This has to be done correctly.

Steve