lubrication on the crankshaft bearings

[Johnny Mac]

Hello Everyone
I would like to ask for some advice regarding what is current for the crankshaft and rod bearings as far as cutting grooves in the babbit bearings for lubrication. I have recently dismantled what appears to be a recently reconditioned engine and had become "stuck". On all of the rod bearings and main bearings there are no grooves cut in them. Therefore would this prevent or restrict crankshaft lubrication? Your comments would be appreciated. Thank you John

[Kevin Pharis]

Did I hear a can of worms opening...?

[Dan Hatch]

Ford rods did not have grooves cut in them. Mains only had a small groove in top of block side of bearing cut in line with the crank. Nothing in the cap. Dan

[Kerry]

All the bearings also had a oil swipe groove cut at the parting lines. Has, or are you going to fit dippers?

[Norman Kling]

If the caps are drilled for dippers, then I would say yes to the grooves. If not, the oil will run in from the top and sides of the rod. I have dippers in all of mine, and have not tried running rods without them. I think, perhaps, the babbit would last longer without the grooves, however, with the dippers, you wouldn't get as much oil in. So I would say it depends on how fast you plan to drive. The faster you go, the less time the rod is in the pan, so the dippers might help. Anyway, just my opinion for what it's worth.
Norm