Main Bearings, .020 Case, Standard Crank, .040 Thrust

OVERVIEW

When it comes to rebuilding your classic air-cooled Volkswagen engine, the foundation of your bottom end is the most critical factor in determining how many miles you''ll get out of that investment. These EMPI Main Bearings are specifically engineered for cases that have been line-bored .020 inches (0.50mm) over to correct for decades of wear, heat cycling, or warping, yet are paired with a standard-sized crankshaft that is still within factory tolerances. By utilizing high-quality aluminum-backed construction, these bearings offer superior heat dissipation and structural integrity compared to cheaper, softer alternatives. At Appletree Auto, we know that a precise fit is the difference between a smooth-running weekend cruiser and a catastrophic engine failure, which is why we provide these professional-grade components to ensure your oil pressure remains rock solid and your rotating assembly stays perfectly aligned under load.

This particular bearing set is unique because it also features a .040 inch (1.00mm) thrust cut, which is essential for engine cases where the thrust surface has been machined to remove scoring or to restore the proper flat surface required for managing crankshaft end play. If you''ve found that your magnesium or aluminum case has seen heavy use, this specific combination of dimensions allows you to save a vintage engine block that might otherwise be destined for the scrap heap. Whether you are building a stock 1600cc Beetle engine or a performance-oriented street machine, these bearings provide the tight tolerances and durable wear surfaces required to handle the stresses of modern driving and higher RPMs. Don''t settle for "close enough" when it comes to your engine''s internal clearances; trust the expertise of Appletree Auto to supply the exact bearing set you need for a professional, long-lasting, and reliable engine build.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Ghia (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, 1600cc)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi (1200cc, 1500cc, 1600cc through 1971)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, Notchback (1500cc, 1600cc)
• Volkswagen Thing: All Years (1600cc)
• Custom Applications: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Trikes using VW Type 1 based engine cases.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 111-198-471OS
• Case Bore Size: .020 Inches (0.50mm) Oversize
• Crankshaft Journal Size: Standard (Stock)
• Thrust Surface Width: .040 Inches (1.00mm) Oversize
• Bearing Material: High-Performance Aluminum Backed Alloy
• Engine Compatibility: 1200cc to 1600cc Dual Relief and Single Relief Cases
• Set Includes: Full set of main bearings for one complete engine assembly
• Thrust Bearing Design: Flanged for precise end-play control

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Your Machine Work Before Assembly

Before you even think about opening your assembly lube, you must verify the work performed by your machine shop. Use a high-quality micrometer to measure your crankshaft journals and a dial bore gauge to check the line bore of your case. Because this bearing set is designed for a .020 inch case cut and a .040 inch thrust cut, even a small deviation in machining can lead to incorrect oil clearance. Always "dry fit" the bearings into the case halves and torque the case to spec (without the crank) to check for roundness and proper seating. This extra step ensures that you won''t have to tear the engine back down due to a tight spot or an oil pressure issue caused by a machining error.

2. Inspect the Bearing Dowel Pins and Oil Holes

One of the most common mistakes in VW engine assembly is neglecting the dowel pins in the engine case. Ensure that the dowel pins are seated to the correct depth and are not mushroomed. If the pin is too high, it will prevent the bearing from seating fully, leading to a "crush" issue that can gall the bearing or seize the crank. Additionally, always align the oil holes in the bearings with the oil galleries in the case. Even though these are high-quality EMPI bearings, you should never assume they are perfectly clean out of the box. Use a lint-free cloth and a bit of brake cleaner to remove any shipping oils or debris before applying your assembly lubricant.

3. Manage Your End Play Precisely

Since this set features a .040 inch thrust cut, you are dealing with a case that has had significant material removed from the thrust face. Once the crank is installed with these bearings, you must set your crankshaft end play using the three shims behind the flywheel. Aim for the factory specification of .003 to .005 inches (.07mm to .13mm). If you cannot achieve this range, double-check that the thrust bearing is seated perfectly against the case shoulder. Remember, the thrust bearing is the only thing keeping your crankshaft from walking back and forth during clutch engagement; if the clearance is too loose, you''ll hammer the bearing and the case; if it''s too tight, you''ll burn up the thrust surface in minutes.