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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2 |
Hey there all ! I'm starting to research an old 216ci motor in my 52 pick up.I'm finally going to get into this project that has been siting in my yard for 8 years .Wanted to start with getting her in good running condition ,and rebuilding the engine to start. I've never been in an engine this old , and I'm hearing alot of opinions ,but mostly change that motor ,or don't mess with those babbit bearings both of which I say- balonie ! Right?? Any way I hear babbits need to go to a machinist but i've also heard they're convertible or serviceable ? Ive been a mechanic for 19 years,10 with Chevrolet ,and need a heads up on what I'm getting into .Any info would be appreciated . Thanks in advance , Tony 
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
Hi Tony, If you have been a mechanic for 19 years, we should be asking you questions. Seriously, if you have not actually worked with these older machines they are sometimes a challenge. However with mechanical experience and this site you will be just fine. 
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
If the present bearings and crankshaft are in good condition the bearings will only require adjusting.This is done easily by removing shims.All bearings are "babbit"-replaceable or not.The old 216 rods had the babbit "attached" to the rod it self and not to a shell.If necessary and/or desired, or if the crankshaft needs turning, converted insert type rods can be installed.The original 1948-53 rods had the thinner babbit, not to be confused with the earlier engines that had rather thick babbit layer.If you don't have one get a shop manual.The adjusting process is well described for the rod and main bearings.
Gene Schneider
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Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3
Grease Monkey
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Grease Monkey
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3 |
Go to www.inliners.com at the top of the page you will see an ad for Beck's Machine and Tool click on this site, his shop is not very far from you.
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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2 |
Thanks to all that replied ,I'm new to this site ,so hope this was the proper procedure to get the thanks out.
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
Gene Schneider
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Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 4,951
ChatMaster - 4,000
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ChatMaster - 4,000
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 4,951 |
Teespan, You did as well as any and better than many. I'm definitely not one of the 'experts.' But there are a number of them in here. It's really a good place to ask questions. And get good answers. I am aware most of the fellas appreciate hearing back. Sort of let's them know the one asking the question(s) actually took the time to read the "answer(s)." As they say, "You 'done' good."  Bill.
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Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 619
Oil Can Mechanic
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Oil Can Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 619 |
Tony, I too am an old dealership technician. And like you, was a bit cautious about opening up one of these old engines at first. I never even heard of a babbit bearing? Like Gene stated, get the shop manual! When you read it, you will marvel in the beauty of the simplicity that these engines were designed. It truly is fascinating reading. After so many years of building these modern engines for work, it kind of took the fun out out of it. After you dive into your 216, you will re-discover the joy that made us choose this field when we were kids. The guys on this board are the BEST you will find.
GOOD LUCK, and ENJOY...
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Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 6
Grease Monkey
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Grease Monkey
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 6 |
I also have a 52 pickup I bought 7 years ago with the original 216 which had been sitting for years. I took it to a good mechanic because I assumed it would need a rebuild. After cleaning 4" of sludge from the pan, valve adjustment and a rebuilt carb, he said there is nothing wrong with it. Just drive it. Those old motors are tough.
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