m42 main thrust bearing?

[Simon S]

I’ve done some research and am having a hard time gathering information about the main thrust bearing in an e30/m42 motor.

I understand that half of a bearing shell was used and it presents a fail point in design.

How does the main thrust bearing differ from rod bearings?

Why can’t I find part numbers for a main thrust bearing in realOEM ?

Where is the main thrust bearing?

While yes – replacing a main thrust bearing(s?) typically is done during a full rebuild – is it possible to replace a main thrust bearing while engine is in the car?

Any first or second-hand knowledge on stories related to the m42 main thrust bearing?


Thanks for any input.

[KenC]

It's called a "guide bearing" on realoem.

It's the crank bearing between #3 and #4 cylinders.

Replace while the engine is still in the car? I guess you could pull the bearing cap off and put a new piece in there...

Slight shifting of the crank from a worn out one is the issue with it.