Hello everyone. This is my first post here but I've been lurking for some time now. Been going through my 1.9 wbx. It's my first rebuild so I'm learning as I go. The motor had about 90,000 mi when I pulled it from my '84 Westy earlier this year because of leaky heads and creamy oil. After seeing a bunch of metal flakes in the case I decided to split the case. It's definitely been a good learning experience and some things are still up in the air. The motor is currently at a machine shop being cleaned and checked.
Anyways. My question is regarding the main bearings. They are Kolbenschmidt (std size). Still sealed in the original packaging. I tried to find German parts where possible. They have the elephant stamp on them if that makes any difference. They look kind of beat up to me but I have no prior experience so I can't really say. So I'm hoping to hear from some of you who have experience. Do these bearings look beat up? I'm debating returning them and using a set of Mahle mains from Brazil (which look nice and smooth).
Looks like they were sub contracted out to china. I suppose if the thrust and actully bearing surface are ok they are useable but then again if they did not give a crap about the voids it makes one wonder what is hiding under the thin babbit?
Thanks for your reply, perrib. I didn't know what babbitt or void meant related to a bearing until now. The key words make all the difference. Neither the box nor the bearings themselves are stamped Germany, so who knows. I'll probably return the KS and use the Mahle set from Brazil.
Re they voids or just little spots of lead oxide? (light corrosion/discoloration really)
Unfortunately you may not be able yo tell for sure unless you unwrap them.
If its just discoloration, press on.
Addendum to Newtons first law:
zero vehicles on jackstands, square gets a fresh 090 and 1911, cabby gets a blower.
EZ3.6 Vanagon after that.(mounted, needs everything finished) then Creamsicle.
I suppose if the thrust and actully bearing surface are ok they are useable but then again if they did not give a crap about the voids it makes one wonder what is hiding under the thin babbit?