Old timer was RIGHT about using assembly lube on main bearing bolts, not oil

I ignored Bob from the NAPA counter when he said to use the moly paste and instead just soaked them in 30 weight like I always do, and now I'm pulling a spun bearing out of a 350 Chevy I built 300 miles ago, so has anyone else learned this lesson the hard way?

3 comments

3 Comments

wendy_park7623d ago

Did you try using a torque wrench with the moly paste on the threads? I had the same problem on a small block Ford back in the 90s. I used oil on the rod bolts and ended up with a knock after 200 miles. Pulled the pan and saw the bearing was starting to spin. A machinist buddy told me to always use assembly lube on any bolt that gets torqued inside the engine. The lube gives you the right friction so the torque readings are accurate. I bought a tube of that Permatex stuff and never had the problem again on any build since.

adam67523d ago

Learned that shortcut you take today is a headache you own tomorrow.

ellis.susan23d ago

Fair point, but I kinda disagree. You can use oil and still get good torque readings if you know what you're doing and stay consistent. Not every shortcut ends in a headache, sometimes it just saves time lol.