where do i find new intermediate shaft bearings?

[doktor_b]

i've been waiting 3 weeks since placing my order with the local dealership.
Ireland Engineering doesn't have them.
FCP doesn't have them.
i'm waiting on a call back from VAC.
my engine has been at the machine shop for weeks waiting on these damned bearings.

i need some help, please.

[SkiFree]

No matter who you order from it'll be going through BMW north america's parts chain. Meaning who you order from would be calling their local dealer contact.

11-11-1264-196 is still readily available
11-11-1-280863 is out of stock in the US and in Germany. According to BMW they've got more scheduled to be ready mid next month. If they aren't ready at that point there is a very good chance the part will be discontinued.

Bummer that your machine shop hot-tanked the block and removed the bearings prior to checking availability (in their defense this is typically standard procedure, and is kind of on you to let them know).

In reality a better solution may be to just source a different block. Sorry for the bummer news though.

[richard.bratton]

You could pull some used bearings out of a junk block and install in your block. These bearings rarely need replacing.

[jlevie]

You could pull some used bearings out of a junk block and install in your block. These bearings rarely need replacing.

Not true. Well, a low mileage block (less than 150k) that has been properly maintained usually has good intermediate shaft bearings. A more worn block or one that has not been properly maintained usually needs new ones.

The factory parts, with the machining that goes with installation are the best choice, but the bearings can be machined from scratch from suitable stock.

[doktor_b]

I guess I'm going to call the machine shop tomorrow and see if they can manufacture a new bearing. I should have the available bearing by the end of the week.

FML

[doktor_b]

I have a machinist friend who can make me a bearing out of brass or bronze.
I know bearings are generally made of an Aluminum alloy.

Provided the size and tolerances were in spec, would there be a problem with a brass, or bronze, bearing?

[jlevie]

Bearing bronze should work.

[doktor_b]

Dodged a bullet.
Found some at a dealer a state away. Shipping them out today. Hoping to have then by week's end.

If no, I'll look into the bronze.

Thanks!

[richard.bratton]

Not true. Well, a low mileage block (less than 150k) that has been properly maintained usually has good intermediate shaft bearings. A more worn block or one that has not been properly maintained usually needs new ones.

The factory parts, with the machining that goes with installation are the best choice, but the bearings can be machined from scratch from suitable stock.

Come on Jim, that's pretty obvious but I've run across only one engine with "bad" IM shaft bearings.