Re: insert bearing for Model A

Posted by Mike Flanagan on July 11, 1998 at 21:23:13

In Reply to: Re: insert bearing for Model A
posted by Gordon Biggar on July 09, 1998 at 20:31:53

If you retain the Model A Block and crankshaft in it's original configuration insert bearings offer no more of a guarantee of longevity than eating alfalfa shoots and oat bran. The cost involved in the inserted engine will make you hope for it and the alfalfa and oats will make it seem like it.
The main advantage I see is ease of rebuild if you do not have a reliable rebuilder in your area. I tend to dance with the one that brung me and the simplicity of the Model A is what attracted me to it and I won't compromise that simplicity with modern tecnology. A peek into the repair tent at Reno and the "inserted" engine with an oil leak the size of my head in the side of the block where a rod let go for reasons that I would rather not get into added yet more conviction to my mindset. I could be wrong but the only cars I saw in the repair area for "major" work were modified cars. That's not to say that the original design is "Fool" proof. Witness the broken axle in the parking lot Thursday mornin'. I did that on level paved ground. Even Henry didn't make 'em "Fool Proof".
God Speed Under 50.
The Model A Fool.
: : I'm thinking of having inserted bearings installed in my A block when it comes time for the next rebuild.What are the drawbacks of doing this, if any? I would assume inserts will last longer than babbitted bearing, is that true?
: : What engine the inserts originally fit? Can the connecting rod bearings also use inserts?How about the camshaft?
: : Thanks!
:
: Bob --
: It's really not a difficult decision; it's one of "purity," or ethics, if you will.Probably about ten of our Club members here in the Houston area have sent their blocks out to Pete's Auto Machine in Albequerque, NM for having insert bearings installed.I don't know of one that doesn't like the operating performance of his engine.
: The flywheel is lightened considereably, and the crank is counter-balanced.By using inserts for the mains and the connecting rods, you essentially eliminate the need for babbitted bearings altogether.If Rick Botti is snoozing out on the Coast (i.e., not following the Board anymore), send him an e-mail at RBotti@sns.com and ask for his reactions.I recommended Pete's to him some months ago, and he has had his block back in the car for about a month, I believe.
: I sent my block out to Pete's about a year ago -- for babbitt bearings.Since I have more fun tearing things apart and, with the help of this Board, attempting to put them back together correctly, I wanted my car to retain its originality.If you want to drive along the Interstate at 65 mph, why not restore a vintage Mustang, or Corvette, or whatever?On the other hand, if you like driving your "A" several hundred miles on tours on a frequent basis, then insert bearings certainly simplifies your life.
: Me?I'd rather lay under my vehicle at 10,000 miles to check the bearing clearances, and hope that I've been sufficiently careful in changing the oil so that the babbitt is still in commendable condition.
: The cost difference is not material.As I recall, the insert route will set you back about $1200 or so, but that includes new pistons and rings, and a crank chromed and reground to standard.Ask Rick what the damage was for his recent escapade.
: Peace
: Le Colonel

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