Babbitt Work needed in IL. Anyone!?!

M

Matts30coupe

Member
Just tore down my 29 motor to find out that the mains babbit is trashed.. Was wondering what something like this cost to do? Located in Joliet IL

Matt
 
Call Rich at Antique engine rebuilders
Skokie Illinois
Great guy



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I did have engine rebuilt by Aer 6 years ago and yes it was a insert but quality work. I sold the car 2 years ago.
 
I strongly recommend Schwalm's Babbitted Bearings, Inc. In Strasburg, PA. 717-687-6976. They specialize in Model A engines and have years of experience. Flawless reputation. I had just had them do an engine for me.
 
Just my opinion: the industry is shifting away from babbit for several reasons: one, modern cars have inserts; two, inserts don't require as much special knowledge and equipment as babbit. But with that the inserts when damaged will fail right away as opposed to babbit which you might be able to limp home with. I would go with inserts, but if the rest of your babbit is OK, maybe that would be more cost effective. Though it is best to replace everything while you are in there.
 
chrs1961815 said:
Just my opinion: the industry is shifting away from babbit for several reasons: one, modern cars have inserts; two, inserts don't require as much special knowledge and equipment as babbit. But with that the inserts when damaged will fail right away as opposed to babbit which you might be able to limp home with. I would go with inserts, but if the rest of your babbit is OK, maybe that would be more cost effective. Though it is best to replace everything while you are in there.
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One or two thoughts to ponder. Properly cast bearings will typically last just as long, -if not longer than inserts will. The key here is ensuring the poured bearing material is of the proper composition and has been cast properly.

Another misconception is that once an engine has been machined for inserts, a home hobbyist can replace the insert shells should an insert bearing fail. Unfortunately that is not been the case on my experience. If the bearing is spun within the cap or block, the cap must be line-bored again. If the block is damaged, then line-boring is not an option due to timing gear lash. If the crankshaft is damaged, it is generally not as easy to exchange crankshafts due to thrust clearances.
 
Effingham Regrind still does Babbitt work. I have used them before and they do a great job. Located in Effingham, Illinois.
 
I would also give a thumbs-up to Ora and the Schwalms folks. Great to work
with and I am satisfied with my rebuild. Maybe a distance to travel or ship, but worth the look or a phone call.. IMO/kb
 
A lot of Rock-Ford-A's (Rockford IL) members have used
Lashelle Engine Restoration
1802 Crossroads Lane North 2
Freeport, IL 61032
(815) 821-3546
And I believe they have been very satisfied with Jim Lashelle's babbit work.
It's nice to be within driving distance of the shop your using
Perhaps someone who has worked with Jim will jump in.
 
Thanks to all that replied!! What a great community here. I will look into a couple of these and see what cam be done. Thanks again!!
Matt
 
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