replace needle bearings in connecting rod?

[The red boat]

while I have my RD-17 crankcase open, is it a good idea to replace the needle bearings in the connecting rods?
I’m having a hard time finding/purchasing them and didn’t know if this was one of those things that could or should be replaced while it is all open.
i have no reason to suspect they are bad or worn out until i actually open the case and look at them. Just want to have all parts on hand when I do.

opinions? sources?

[frankr]

They should look perfect. Shiny, no flat spots, or rust or pitting. If they pass inspection, no need to replace them.

[frankr]

While we are on the subject, think about this–the CRANKSHAFT is the inner race for all the bearings. If the bearings are damaged, there is a likely chance the crankshaft surfaces are also. Then it becomes fatal.

[bobw]

frankr wrote:

While we are on the subject, think about this–the CRANKSHAFT is the inner race for all the bearings. If the bearings are damaged, there is a likely chance the crankshaft surfaces are also. Then it becomes fatal.

Like this one I found in one of my motors. Note one of the bearing needles was completely missing when I opened the case!

Bob

1937 Champion D2C Deluxe Lite Twin
1954 Johnson CD-11
1955 Johnson QD-16
1957 Evinrude Fastwin 18
1958 Johnson QD-19
1958 Johnson FD-12
1959 Johnson QD-20

“Every 20 minute job is only a broken bolt away from a 3-day project.”
"Every time you remove a broken or seized bolt an angel gets his wings."

[frankr]

edit…

[The red boat]

good point.

[The red boat]

haven’t opened up mine yet but thanks for the scary visual!!

kinda don’t want to know now.

[Mumbles]

I think I see the missing needle. It’s now part of the crank and the race half!

[bobw]

Mumbles wrote:

I think I see the missing needle. It’s now part of the crank and the race half!

Indeed it is! When I first opened the case, I saw the needles in the one retainer were all chewed up and thought “that’s not good”. Then saw the missing needle in the other retainer and thought “that’s really not good”.

Bob

1937 Champion D2C Deluxe Lite Twin
1954 Johnson CD-11
1955 Johnson QD-16
1957 Evinrude Fastwin 18
1958 Johnson QD-19
1958 Johnson FD-12
1959 Johnson QD-20

“Every 20 minute job is only a broken bolt away from a 3-day project.”
"Every time you remove a broken or seized bolt an angel gets his wings."

[Author]

Posts