Ford Mustang 5.0L Crankshaft And Main Bearings Worn Out

The crankshaft main bearing and piston rod caps have been removed from the 5.0l engine as seen in the previous page, We have now removed the crankshaft from the engine. First picture shows the crankshaft, main bearings and main caps all on the table.

The main caps should be stamped for there position number and must be re-installed in the correct position. The center cap is the thrust bearing and is different from all others. The back cap is also different from all others. So that leaves 3 that look the same, but should be numbered from the front of the engine toward the back. This is true on this Ford engine or any other make.

See second picture that shows a close up of the main bearings wear pattern.

Picture below shows a close up of one of the main beatings still in it caps. Note the wear pattern on the bearings. The discoloration is telling us that the bearing has worn down its top layer of metal and is not yet into the bottom layers, which is a different type of metal. This pattern means the bearings must be replaced.

Engine bearings need to be a certain thickness, down to the thousandth of an inch. The wear on this bearing means it is too thin. So the gap between it and the crankshaft journal is too large. This will cause low oil pressure and can cause engine lower end knocking.

The Mustang cam shaft bearings also need to be inspected for similar wear. This is also an area that can cause low oil pressure. Unless you have a special cam bearing installation tool and are experienced in removing and installing them, you will need to send the block to a machine shop or well equipped parts store to have the cam bearings removed and installed. Improper removal can cause engine block damage. Improper installation can cause premature bearing failure.

The price for a good cam bearings installer set can be over $150. An engine or machine shop will charge you only $35-$45 dollars so it is much better to have an expert do the job and after all, you may never need to use that tool again for this Ford 5.0L engine or any other, so buying one for your toolbox may not make any sense. The bare engine block is not very heavy and is easily lifted and put into the trunk of a car.