Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications 3.0L Duratec Noticed grooved rod bearings during my 3.0 Project

Be carefull using emery cloth. If you don't polish that back to a VERY high shine you may be hurting your bearings in the long run. Like I said, if they aren't raised up scratches, i.e. higher than the rest of the journal metal around them, then just leave it alone and put in the new bearings. They won't get any worse unless more contaminants get in there.

I wonder if this has anything to do with that extra casting sand in the block that Terry H. found out about from Ford on some model year 3L blocks? I can't imagine having multiple scratches without any sign of the contaminants unless there was leftover silica. Well, you've probably flushed out all the particles through oil changes by now so I'd guess you are in the clear. Just be sure to use good filters.

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Ok, I realize this is a 3L project! If I were you I'd look for any other evidence of scoring up in the cam bearings too. Personally, I'd add a set of main bearings to the list.

Contact Procyon. He was saying that some of these TTY bolts can be reused several times. Too be honest though, if you only saw those two little marks and there is nothing else then I'd run it. If you see ANY other signs then take your time and save up the extra cash for the new components.