Bearing Question?

Question

Can I changed the bearings in my 1989 Bronco II w/o pulling the engine?

Answer 1

You can probably do the rod bearings without removing the engine. It's not easy, but doable. However, to do the main crankshaft bearings, it's almost impossible to do without removing the engine. Best done right or you'll probably end up having to do it over.

Answer 2

You can change the upper mains with the crank still in! Diesel mechs do it all the time. Loosen up the mains a little( not enough to let the crank hurt the front and rear seals). Remove and replace mains one at a time. Drop main cap. Carefully use a flat head screw driver to push the upper shell in on the opposite side of the tang. Once its a little past the block, Use a hook shaped device with a point to work out he old shell. rest the hook near the bolt whole and work it out. Some guys used to use bolts with the heads ground down in the oil holes to pop out the upper shells.(put it in and crank the engine a half turn)
Going in is easy. Spray some cleaner up along crank to make sure block saddle is oil free. Make sure new upper shell is centered and start it in being sure to orient the tang properly. only lube crank side. It will only get stuck if its not centered. If it gets stuck, Work it side to side with blunt screwdriver. Keep in mind your working with a crank and bearings and scratches are a bad thing. Hey, it was good enough for Cummins!

Answer 3

If the oil pan comes off without too much trouble and you have enough room under there to work, yes, you can. It might just be faster and easier to pull the engine if you plan on replacing all the bearings and checking them for clearance.

Answer 4

YES
But you will not beable the check the upper clearances on the mains when doing it this way

Best to take the engine out and avoid a costly repair later on.