VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 Insert bearings in early Chevs

There is a guy named Hansen (Seattle)who advertises in VCCA. He specializes in "insert bearing conversions". Anyone have any experience with this process?

Thanks

I just had my 31 coupe engine done. The guy is local on the central coast of Ca. He honed out my rods and put in modern clip in bearings. I have not a chance to run the engine yet because the car is still down to the frame. The mains were rebabbited. I live near Pismo Beach, Ca. Send a PM if I can help.

I had my inserts done on my 1931 by Marc Hansen in 2001. I have driven it almost 5000 miles. The change improves the horse power, allows for higher RPM's because he balances it, and he replaces the center main end thrust bearing surface with a brass thrust bushing pinned in place. The only draw back is Egge aluminum pistons are used and they give you a piston slap noise that can be annoying. You can make it quieter by adding Marvel Mystery oil to your gas but it doesn't go away completely. My car has ran great and I feel it is stronger. I once drove it 50 miles on the freeway non stop at 52 miles per hour with no problems.

That fact that Egge pistons were used is a good reason to tear down the engine and replace the pistons with "real" pistons. Egge pistons do not have a very good reputation.

:( :( :(

I have driven a 1931 with stock babbitted engine at 55 mph for well over 50 miles on many occasions without any problems. That is with the stock 4.10 gears and 5.0 x 19" tires. With the factory balance the engine wiggles a might but will hold together. By the way the engine was not recently rebuilt. By indications the 53k miles on the odometer were correct and no evidence of major engine work.

I have a question. How does Marc Hansen provide for the side thrust on the inserted '31 rods? Or does he just let them float? Use '32 rods? Or???? The '29-31 stock rods use babbit for the thrust surface. It is poured and machined for the bore and thrust.

The bottom line is: If it works for you do it. All of my touring vehicles are as stock as I can keep them. It is more satisfying for them to get back home then if they have a bunch of modifications. That may change if the "Boss" decides she has to have A/C in the summer or won't go.