The main bearing bolt is a key fastener used to fix the main bearing cover in the engine. Its function is to ensure stable rotation of the crankshaft in the main bearing seat, withstand alternating loads and shear forces. The following is a detailed explanation about the main bearing bolts:
1. Function and Importance
Fixed main bearing cover: Connect the main bearing cover tightly to the engine cylinder block to maintain the axial and radial positioning of the crankshaft.
Enduring dynamic loads: resisting periodic impacts, vibrations, and torsional loads generated by crankshaft rotation.
Sealing function: In some engines, bolts also participate in maintaining oil pressure or sealing oil passages.
2. Design Features
High strength materials: Alloy steel (such as 42CrMo, 40Cr) or high-performance stainless steel are usually used, which undergo quenching and tempering heat treatment (quenching+tempering) to achieve high tensile strength (≥ 1000MPa).
Precision thread: Fine thread (such as M12 × 1.25) enhances pre tightening force control and reduces the risk of loosening.
Structural optimization: Some bolts are designed with fracture grooves (such as connecting rod bolts) to selectively fracture during overload to protect other components.
3. Installation and torque requirements
Step by step tightening: According to the manufacturer's specifications, tighten 2-3 times in a cross pattern (such as 50Nm first, then 90 °, and finally 90 °) to ensure even force distribution.
Torque angle method: Modern engines often use "torque+angle" control to accurately apply preload force.
Anti loosening measures: Use thread locking adhesive, anti loosening gaskets, or plastic area bolts (disposable).
4. Common faults and causes
Loosening: Insufficient pre tightening force, uneven torque, or vibration can cause abnormal noise in the main bearing and even crankshaft wear.
Fracture: Fatigue failure (commonly found at the root of threads or in the transition zone of screws), material defects, or overload.
Elongation deformation: Insufficient yield strength of bolts or repeated use beyond their service life.
5. Maintenance precautions
Regular inspection: Measure the length of bolts during major repairs (if the plastic deformation exceeds 0.5%, replacement is required).
Prohibition of repeated use: Some engines require the main bearing bolts to be used once (such as Volkswagen EA888).
Cleaning and lubrication: Clean the threaded holes before installation and apply engine oil or specialized lubricant according to the manual requirements (affecting torque coefficient).