How to check a case?

BenI · 02-26-2003, 10:38 AM

I just got back from the machine shop where the machinist showed me that my 2 cases are bad. He checked the cases by placing a #1 main bearing accross the bearing surfaces in the engine. He checked to see if the bearing needed to be tapped in or if it dropped right in with no pressure. Similarly you could place the bearing on one of the bearing surfaces and check if light shines through before you seat it. If the case doesn't need alighn-boring, the bearing should require slight pressure to seat all the way. My question is if this is an adaquate way of checking a case? It makes sense to me but I'm not sure if the case deforms any when it's tightened shut with studs. I have another shop that I could try...what do you think?

Ben

norustscott · norustscott's Garage

I went through two cases before my rebuild...that is the way I checked it. If the bearing is loose you can go the line bore path.

As itwas mentione in another post. 914 cases must have an averag f 400 miles on each!...That mileage will take its toll. If you can find one tat wil have that slight bearing "sqwash" use it. If not condsider the line bore.

Jake Raby · 02-26-2003, 11:06 AM

I made a more detailed post on STF about this...

This is not the proper way to check the case, but will work for a DIY guy.... I have seen cases fail this test, but pass a bore gauge when torqued up.

I'm more worried about the collapse of the center main than the align bore on initial checks. The center saddle is NOT repairable with machining, align bore is.

Get a second opinion, and a new machinist that has a set of Micrometers and bore gauges and is willing to use them.

The automotive machinist plays more of a key role in the engine assembly than anyone else. You need a good one, if noteverything from the foundation up is wasted.

I see it ALL THE TIME!