Posted by Michael Hernke (MO) [162.158.75.145] on Monday, April 09, 2018 at 07:59:01 :
In Reply to: Re: Bad Day in the garage posted by daveyk [162.158.79.110] on Sunday, April 08, 2018 at 20:02:50 :
Back when I put the 4bt in the M37 I had to remove the oil pan. When I did I found a half a ring of bronze laying in the sump. So I called some friends and read online and determined it was the thrust bearing and that this is common with the b series Cummins with a manual trans at somewhat high miles. I checked the bearings which looked great otherwise and ended up replacing just the main with the thrust bearing and leaving the others alone. After reading about the bearing and looking at the design I got to thinking the clutch engagement puts a lot of load on the thrust bearing. Further when the engine is started there is no oil pressure so the bearing is relying strictly on the left over oil film for protection. This experience has led me to always starting with the transmission in neutral but with the clutch engaged. I may now have to rethink this philosophy as a weigh the cost and hassle of changing a thrust bearing against the cost and 11hassle of rebuilding my garage stairs?!