Replacing main bearing caps...

[dguy]

...on a VW.  Eeeew!

But it has to be done.  


Having never done it before, I'm looking for someone "in the know."  Is it a simple matter of purchasing the new caps & installing them, or should I dig up some plastigauge & check the clearances first in case the bearing surfaces on the crank have worn significantly?

[FieroDough]

if it's knocking, it too late. You need to get the crank checked for scores ect.

if not.. you need to plecsy? gauge the bearings and get the appropriate replacement.

[dguy]

if it's knocking, it too late. You need to get the crank checked for scores ect.

if not.. you need to plecsy? gauge the bearings and get the appropriate replacement.

Nope, not knocking thank goodness.  

All of the symptoms it currently has, plus a track record for that particular engine, are pointing a big, fat finger at mains that are worn just enough to cause problems in the oil pressure department, but not enough to produce any noticable knocking.

So I do need to get the new caps properly sized, eh?  Thanks Eric!

Now I have an excuse to buy a new tool...  mmmmm