M20 rebuild - intermediate shaft bushing question

[zzbearcat]

Im taking apart my M20B25 from a 1989 325i to rebuild and I've read some conflicting information about the intermediate shaft bushings and tanking the block. I intend to tank the block and replace the bushings. The machinist I have talked with was recommended by a very reputable local BMW shop here.

It seems to me any good machinist could press and reem/hone to size these bushings much like any other cam bearings,ect, however I do plan to index every item in the engine, have a clear understanding with the machine shop what the plan is prior to the work being done, and check every measurement before reassemble and double check all clearances ect. Im not assuming anything.

My question is this, for any of those here who have personal experience with the rebuild of a M20, please give any advise that they believe may be helpful in regard to this subject or any other information they believe may be helpful.
Thanks

[Myster-E]

On my 2.8 I hot tanked the block as well but did not remove the bearing. The bearing was still perfect after and had nice clearance so I just ran it. Have about 2,000 miles on the engine and has no issues.

[nando]

you can usually reuse them, but they can also be replaced. you have to do exactly what you described - have them pressed in and reamed to size. they will need to be matched to your intermediate shaft.

if you decide to reuse them, leave the intermediate shaft in the block and coat the bearings in a thick layer of grease. don't leave it in there long.

[dandrewg]

I replaced mine. Just make sure the machine shop has correct equipment. It was inexpensive to have done and the bearings were only a few dollars each iirc.

[dswenfl]

I did mine myself, ordered bearings from bavauto, pressed them in, then honed out, at about 5000 miles post build with no issues.

[zzbearcat]

Thanks everyone, Very encouraging feed back. So Im understanding that if i do replace the bushings, and the machinist aknowledges he has the capability to do the work it should not be a problem. Does any one know where the clearances could be found? The part numbers I have are 11-11-1-280-863 & 11-11-1-264-196 for the bushings. Does this all sound good? Thanks

[dswenfl]

.001 to about .0015 clearance
And part number is right