Connecting rod bearing: role, change and price

The connecting rod bearing, consisting of two half bearings, reduces friction between the connecting rod and the crankshaft. Its lubrication is extremely important and takes place through the center groove. Worn connecting rod bearings emit a clicking sound at high, stable speeds. If so, they should be changed without delay.

⚙️ What is a connecting rod bearing?

One link is the steel piece that connects the piston from the engine to the crankshaft. Its role is to impart circular motion to it, transforming the vertical motion of the piston. The connecting rod bearing is part of the connecting rod.

Indeed, the connecting rod consists of a ring consisting of holes in which the connecting rod bearings are mounted. Composed of two half-gaskets, the stem bearing shell is a smooth piece with an oil groove.

The connecting rod bearing is made of metal alloy for better frictional resistance. Indeed, its role is to reduce shock and friction between the crankshaft and the connecting rod between which it is located. Therefore, it is designed to resist combustion and reduce the inertia created by the rotation of the engine.

To do this, it must be lubricated regularly. For this reason, the central groove of the connecting rod bearing provides a strong film of oil to lubricate it.

📍 Where are the connecting rod bearings?

Your car's engine has bearings at the level of parts that need to be reduced in friction to avoid wearing them out too quickly. As the name suggests, connecting rod bearings are located at the level of the connecting rods, close to the crankshaft which provide a connection to the pistons.

📅 When to change connecting rod bearings?

Connecting rod bearings are designed to reduce friction between mechanical parts, here the crankshaft and connecting rod, which could wear out very quickly without them. The connecting rods are wear parts that need to be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations, usually about 200 kilometers.

Connecting rod bearings must be replaced at the same time as connecting rods so as not to damage the latter or even break the engine. Indeed, it is dangerous to drive with HS connecting rod bearings, which can form sawdust that can clog the oil pump.

Without proper lubrication, the engine will quickly overheat and fail. Hence, it is also necessary to replace the connecting rod bearings when they are worn out or damaged. Do not delay replacing them if they show signs of wear.

⚠️ How do I know if the connecting rod bearings are dead?

The HS connecting rod bearings must be replaced immediately. But it is not always easy to know when they are wearing, because it is an unrecognizable part. HS connecting rod bearing symptoms:

• Abnormal noise (clicks);
• Excessive oil consumption.

A worn connecting rod bearing is difficult to diagnose. Noise is the main sign that the connecting rod bearing needs replacing, but the clicking sound in the engine may be of a different origin. Therefore, it is important to focus on the behavior of the noise.

Thus, the HS connecting rod bearing makes more noise as the rpm rises. To check the condition of the connecting rod bearings, set a constant speed and listen to see if the noise increases compared to acceleration. The connecting rod bearing click is actually greater when the speed is stable and the rpm is high.

🔧 How to change connecting rod bearings?

Independent replacement of connecting rod bearings is a long and complicated operation. In order not to remove the engine, it is better to go from below to access the connecting rods. In particular, you will need to change the oil and remove its pan. Here's our connecting rod bearing replacement tutorial!

Material:

• Tools
• socket
• Candles
• Pallet
• New connecting rod bearings

Step 1: Remove the oil pan

Start by lifting the vehicle with a jack and place it on the jack supports so you can work safely under it. You must change the engine oil before removing the oil pan to access the connecting rods. Unscrew the crankcase screws to remove it, then remove the oil pump.

Step 2: Remove the connecting rod bearings.

You will have to work barbell after barbell. Set the one of interest as low as possible by turning the crankshaft, then remove the connecting rod cap. The semi-liner usually remains in it after disassembly, unless it is badly worn.

To remove the second half of the bearing, you need to disconnect the connecting rod from the crankshaft by pushing it up. Remove the top half.

Step 3. Install new connecting rod bearings.

Take the opportunity to check the condition of the crankshaft and the connecting rods themselves. Then install new connecting rod bearings. To select them correctly, follow the links previously used by your manufacturer.

To install new connecting rod bearings, clean their seats in the connecting rod and its cover. Install them dry, without oil and thread. On the other hand, lubricate the inside of the pad after installation. Reassemble and re-tighten the connecting rod cap, then tighten the connecting rods.

Then reassemble the oil pan, replace the oil filter and add enough engine oil. After completing the assembly, turn on the ignition to make sure everything is working properly, that there is no noise or oil leakage.

💶 How much does the connecting rod bearing cost?

The price of four connecting rods with bearings is from 150 to 200 €. However, hourly labor costs need to be added, but the motor needs to be disassembled to gain access to the connecting rod bearings. Consider 700 to 1000 € for connecting rod bearing replacement including parts and labor. This price also includes oil and screws.

Now you know all about connecting rod bearings that are little known but are actually necessary to reduce friction in your engine! After a certain distance, the connecting rod bearings begin to wear out. In this case, they must be replaced immediately, as continuing to drive in this way, you risk damaging the engine.