Hello,

I am replacing the bearings in a 390 and have a question about the bearing set. Where do the large bearings with the flange on them go? On the front bearing area or in the middle bearing area of the block and main cap?

Also, I noticed the bearings on the block, the oil holes don't line up. They seem to cover about 1/4 edge of the hole on the two front of the center and the one rear of the center. I noticed the oil holes in the bearings are centered and the oil holes on the block are off center. Do I have the right year of bearings for this engine?

Thank You

 

Thrust-bearing main bearings are in the middle on the FE - 3rd main cap.

I think one of the oiling mods some people do is to open up that hole in the bearings.

But wait for others to reply, it's been a while since I rebuilt an FE

 

Thrust-bearing main bearings are in the middle on the FE - 3rd main cap.

I think one of the oiling mods some people do is to open up that hole in the bearings.

But wait for others to reply, it's been a while since I rebuilt an FE

 

Ya, the thrust goes in the center main.

Ya, the oil holes NEVER line up. For a stocker, that's fine(it made it 40 yrs already). For better oiling, match the holes up. Some do the bearings, some do the block. Some also say doing the block weakens the block/cap area. It also takes a good cleaning to get the metal shavings out(usually have cam bearings out). For simplicity, carefully take a dremel and dress the bearing oil hole til it matches the block. DO NOT NICK THE BEARING SURFACE!!!!!! Work it from the back side, go easy, take your time. Make sure to use some fine emery/crokus cloth to remove any burrs.

 

I do know the 65'(prior) block has a specific thrust bearing set that must be used. Not sure what year your is. Search "Oiling" for Mods info and there will be plenty reading.

 

OK, so it's OK to open the oil holes a bit?

Thanks

 

Yes, on the bearings. Follow Freightrain's advice

 

OK everyone, I put a little relief in the bearing oil holes and they turned out good and smooth. I also installed the crankshaft and it spins freely. Tomorrow I will install the pistons and new rings.

Thank You everyone for your help.
OJ

 

8) B8A6333A .. Numbers: 1-2-4-5 Main Bearings

2) B8A6337A .. Thrust Main Bearing (#3)

Fits: 1958/60 332/352.
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8) C1AE6333A .. Numbers 1-2-4-5 Main Bearings

2) C1AE6337A .. Thrust Main Bearing (#3)

Fits: 1961/63 352/390/406/427.
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8) C4TZ6333H .. Numbers 1-2-4-5 Main Bearings

Fits: 1964/76 352/360/390/410/428.
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** 2) C4TZ6337H .. Thrust Bearing (#3)

Fits: 1964/65 352/390.
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2) C6TZ6337J .. Thrust Bearing (#3)

Fits: 1966/76 352/360/390/410/428.