Thread: Rear main bearing issue

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Hello, I have a 390 FE block that I'm assembling, but I've noticed that the rear bearing doesnt seem to fit right. However, everything I have researched tells me I have the correct bearings, which are Clevite 77 MS-863 P-20 (.020 undersize crank). The issue I'm having is that it seems like the thrust sides of the bearing are too large (as seen in the photo). Has anyone ever ran into this? And if so, is there a common fix? (ie. filing the bearing down) Thanks for your help!



http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r...0618-00028.jpg

I think I figured it out. I was able to make out the date stamp of my block, and it says "2L16" which indicates the block is from 62, and the bearings I have are for 67. I confirmed it, and the bearings for 62 are indeed a different part number. I suppose let this be a lesson to all, don't assume you know what year your block is!

Fords thrust bearings go on number three

Good catch, Jerry. This picture shows where it goes.

Don

And thats a nice 427 you got there Don, altho it needs a little attention for the tappet holes----are you uo real late or real early????

Jerry

Yes ^^^ what they said on thrust bearing location. For the date code on your block a 62 block will only have 2 motor mount holes and will use the early type bearing as noted. It's also possible the block is a 72 and will have 4 motor mount holes. If you see 2 dots under the 2 of the date code it'll be a 72 block. Just a heads up on that. If you can post a pic of the date code and side of the block it'll be easier to tell.

And thats a nice 427 you got there Don, altho it needs a little attention for the tappet holes----are you uo real late or real early????

Jerry





Unfortunately, not my block..........just one I borrowed off of the internet.




Don

Thanks for your help fellas, I feel quite foolish but I indeed was trying to build this motor like a small block Chevy I'm used to (see first pic below), as this is my first Ford. Also, the date stamp does indeed have two dots below it, alas making it a '72. Crazy what you can learn with the help of some of you veterans! After my bearing snafu, I got rolling and have the engine most of the way assembled (See second pic). Just need to go through the rocker assemblies, install them and the intake, and we'll be there! Thanks again everyone.

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r...7/DSCF2942.jpg
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r...b_2007/390.jpg