Reusing #8 Nose Bearing in 3.0L Motor
 

I am researching the parts I need to buy to reassemble my 3.0 case and I came across this thread which mentions re-using the #8 nose bearing:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/911-engine-rebuilding-forum/920429-reusing-main-bearings.html

Any further thoughts to this? If feasible, how would I critique my existing bearing to determine if reusable? Measure with bore gauge and inspect for visual damage?

The thought behind re-using this bearing is purely for cost savings. But if the risk is too great I am not opposed to just buying a new one.

Thanks in advance.

Unless you see damage or excessive wear (scuffing), there is no need to replace it. It gets almost no load in operation. There's another main bearing between it and the first connecting rod.

Make sure you get a good seal around the outside of it when you mate the case halves. The o-ring can get pinched in the case seam. Also be careful to not let any lubricant you use on the o-ring get into the seam. It will displace the sealant and cause a leak. (Ask me how I know).

-Andy

Awesome. Thanks for the feedback!

+1, I was insecure about my old #8 due my snout damage causing a wobble on the pulley.

I ordered a new one and mic'ed them both. Identical, so do not worry if you see no visible damage.

So now I got a nice old within spec one :-( but new one sure is purty.

Hai. Arigato Draco-san.

I've got to agree I purchased a new one from our host and it sure is purdy! No one will know its new but me

That is all that matters, she is for you and only you :D

The race-seasoned 911 internal-artist that rebuilt my 3.0 said what many here opined.

There is little stress on the nose bearing and if it is visibly undamaged, it gets no real load in use / so reuse it. If you want to further Wayne's implementation of superb landscape architectural expression on his Beverly Hill Estate, buy a nose bearing. Every Man deserves an olympic pool in his backyard.

In the meantime, keep building your engine to completion.

cheers