triumph white metal big-end bearings

[tractorman]

Hi, I am rebuilding an 1950's 500 cc engine with a small bearing crank and white metal bearings. The crank has worn some 0.007" oval, so will needa re-grind. Rather than re-metalling the rod and and boring to a new fit, I was wondering if there are any shells close to my crank size, which will be a maximum of 1.425" after grinding, that I could fit, boring the rod and cap to suit. I have been unsuccessful in finding a web site with shell bearings listed by size.

[Martin_UK]

I think there is a conversion kit available for the '50s twins. Have you tried Tri Supply in Devon as a source ?  If you don't find them, I know a very good source for white metalling.

[tractorman]

many thanks Martin

have spoken to Oliver Barns at Tri Sopply 01404 47001. he able to get the mechining done to covert the rods to shell bearings, or able to supply the shells, which come from the 350/500 C range of Triumphs, for those who possess their own machining facilities

Bernard

[enfield49]

What would be the best thing to do ? re white metal the rods or convert ? Graham

[rogerwilko]

Shells anyday!!

[Rex]

What would be the best thing to do ? re white metal the rods or convert ? Graham

Depends on the price, I would say. Shells would be better if at some point in the future the bearings wore, or were damaged in some way, but given the quality of 21st century oils and the use this bike is likely to get, the older white metal bearings would likely outlast us all..
That said, when the rods are converted to use shell bearings, they become rather thin at the con-rod bolt and the last thing anyone needs (given the ever-rising cost of original Triumph parts) is a rod to let go.
Your call..........

[enfield49]

Martin, where is this place that still practises the black art of white metalling? Graham

[Martin_UK]

Martin, where is this place that still practises the black art of white metalling? Graham

http://www.formhalls.com/index.htm

I can personally recommend Terry Formhalls, he's an expert and has rebuilt engines for me. He's not cheap but he's very good.

I believe there is also a place in Birmingham who do white metalling, but haven't got the full details.

Regards,

Martin

[enfield49]

Thanks for the information, I may well contact them. I found another reference where someone had skimmed the cap and honed the white metal back to round, I suppose it depends on the degree of wear. Graham

[Malcolm G]

We restore car engines, when shells are used you must have a very good filtration system (large capacity paper filter) and a very clean engine build as the very small amount of bearing material on shells will be wiped off down to the backing very quickly.

[tractorman]

Thanks for the information, I may well contact them. I found another reference where someone had skimmed the cap and honed the white metal back to round, I suppose it depends on the degree of wear. Graham

Hi, only works if the crank does not require a re-grind to undersize. Bernard