Rod Bearing Question

I think the CJ has a rod knock caused from thinned oil from a flooding carberator. It is not real loud and the engine was only run off and on for maybe 2-3 minutes.

If there is a bearing problem, is it possible to put in new rod bearings without having to pull the crank and have it turned (assuming the crank is visibly undamaged)? I'm hoping for a realtively easy repair rather than a whole engine tear down.

Thanks,

Jim

 

Yes! It is possible and this is a fairly common occurance. I would check your clearance before and after though before starting just to make sure you aren't wasting time. Ought to check mains while your down there. The same oil supplies both

 

Indeed, this is fairly common on an engine with a forged steel crank, like the F134. The V6 has a cast iron crank (as do most engines today) and your chances of repair are less good with cast iron. The cast iron is softer, as soft as the bearing material, so that lubrication failure generally means crankshaft damage.

I would certainly pull the pan and inspect under the rod and main caps, using plastigage. Look for galling or wear of the crank surfaces - they should be perfectly smooth. If not, you need a crank kit.

JMO - if you can hear it, the engine is a V6, and it's really a rod bearing, not much chance you can repair it in the car. Pulling an engine from a Jeep is not hard, and it's a lot easier to work on the engine if it's on a bench or stand.

 

I have another complete parts Jeep with engine, drive train, etc., but I'm hoping I don't have to do an engine swap (or tub swap) if I can avoid it some way. At least there is a chance at repair first.

Thanks,

Jim