Replace main bearings routinely?

It seems like bearing take a "set", if you will, after some running in. Unless contaminate, could virtually last a life time. I am sure if there are free from scoring, pitting and the like, they should be fine.

Routinely? No! But there is nothing routine about splitting the cases unless you do so after every race. If you routinely split the cases then you surely would not replace the mains every time. I don't mess with crank journals either just because I split the cases unless that's what I am there for.

Again, the word "routine" is relative and does not really apply to crankcase splitting endeavors unless you are at the track hitting it hard every weekend.

Save the money for all those other issues that come up ?

hobot said:

Here read this and get back to us with how to judge bearing wear we can use.

http://www.timken.com/EN-US/Knowledge/F ... -Guide.pdf

Click to expand...

Great link, Steve! 'Nothing like pictures to tell a story. I think Rod Stewart would agree...

How about calling around to a bearing shop to see if they have a way to judge when to hold or when to fold? I grew up with trailers and cars ruining bearings in various modes [still do] but seeing bright liquid metal from station wagon rear wheel while towing a trailer catching up with us bouncing at night was the show topper example for me. A bit emotional to peer much at those poor things. To make a decision of this sort I just think of keeping em or tossing em then monitoring breathing rate to go with the most peaceful easy breathing long term choice.