Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

Hello, is there a certain amount of time or interval one should check bearing clearances? Somewhat like scheduled preventative maintenance.
Or do you check them when you hear them? And what would a main bearing sound like? I have a slight "knock" at start up but it goes away when warm.
Sorry if this is a dumb question.

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

Hi Ruth,

Any bearing knock is not good news ...... will get worse ..... investigate.

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

Hi yes. Thank you. I will check it. I was just wondering if there was a suggested internal (for the future) to routinely check the bearings?

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

Chief always said, "If everything's QUIET, leave it alone, if you go MONKEYING around, you might CREATE a PROBLEM"!!!
Chiefs' Son

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

I would say the interval of checking would be determined by how the car is driven and the number of oil changes, as well as the quality of the babbit and quality of the engine build. I'm thinking if everything is done right, then you should expect at least 20,000 miles before you'd need to check.

But be sure to check at the first sign of noise, because excess clearance can pound out the bearings much quicker.

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

If you have a knock on start, but goes away as engine warms up, it could be piston slap.
It also could be valve clearance.. I use a cheap harbor freight stethoscope with the metal probe removed and some heater hose attached. It really helps locate the area the noise is coming from.

Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

As far as what it sounds like, similar to a hydraulic lifter gone bad but from the bottom end, the pan kinda gives it a hollow noise, that's the best I can describe it


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Re: Scheduled time for bearing check?
 

A rod knock can be detected by shorting out each cylinder.
A center main knock can be detected by shorting out #2 & #3 at the same time.
Bill Quiet