[DeTomaso] 10 Quart Oil Pan & Removeable X-Member

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

< 6. If I'm not smoking, is it really worth pulling the bearings out to have 
a look?  >>

Yes. And its so easy, its a shame not to take adsvantage of the engine being 
out. Pull one rod cap AND one main bearing cap. Look at the bearings: if 
there's any copper color at all, change the bearings (ideally, do a lower end 
overhaul since something wore the bearings prematurely and it may still be in the 
engine). Additionally, there may be a 'wagin-track' down one side. trash 
embedded in the surface, etc. Remember, the babbit surface is only a few thousandths 
thick, so be gentle. Be sure to re-torque the caps after inspecting. This 
kind of inspection is done by the pros after every race. Our hard-working street 
engines are lucky if they get checked once every 50,000 miles. Good luck- J 
DeRyke