Why Do Engine Bearing Shells Get Damaged?

[StBrandon]

Engine bearing shell damage is primarily caused by prolonged idling operation. The functions and precautions of engine bearing shells are as follows: Functions: Mainly used to provide friction protection for connecting rods or crankshafts during high-speed operation. During engine use, incidents of bearing seizure often occur, mostly due to improper bearing assembly. Precautions: During the use of bearing shells, to reduce the friction coefficient and ensure smooth operation, lubricating oil is generally added between the bearing shell and the bearing. When adding or replacing lubricating oil, attention should be paid to seasonal considerations, using lubricating oils of different purities in different seasons.

[DeJayden]

With over twenty years of driving experience, I've found that common causes of engine bearing damage are often related to lubrication issues. Dirty or insufficient engine oil leads to inadequate lubrication on friction surfaces, resulting in direct metal-to-metal contact. Contaminants like dust or metal particles mixed into the oil can scratch the bearings, causing pitting or flaking. Additionally, frequent overloading by towing heavy loads or high-speed driving puts excessive pressure on bearings, making them prone to deformation and damage. I've also encountered cases where engine overheating due to cooling system failures caused thermal expansion of bearings, leading to clearance changes and failure. For maintenance, I strictly adhere to changing oil and filters every 5,000 kilometers, opting for genuine brand products to avoid substandard oil—this significantly extends engine life. Driving habits should also be gentle, avoiding sudden throttle inputs to ensure smooth bearing operation. Prevention is key; don't wait for problems to arise before repairing, as the cost would be much higher.

[LenaAnn]

I have some knowledge about automotive technology. Bearing shell damage is usually caused by oil-related failures. When the oil viscosity is mismatched or the oil pressure is too low, the lubrication film disappears, accelerating wear. Overloading operations, such as prolonged high-speed driving or overloading with cargo, apply excessive loads that fatigue and damage the bearing shells. External contamination, like sludge buildup from old oil or tiny metal particles entering the oil passages, can cause scratches on the friction surfaces. Improper installation is common after major overhauls, such as incorrect bolt tightening torque, leading to bearing housing deformation or abnormal clearance. High temperatures also play a significant role, as continuous engine overheating causes expansion that disrupts the original structure. Solutions: Choose the correct oil specification and replace it every six months or when the mileage exceeds the limit; avoid extreme driving conditions; maintain the cooling system properly. This can reduce failure rates and improve reliability.

[JesseLee]

Common bearing shell issues in the workshop are mostly caused by oil contamination and insufficient pressure. Impurities entering the oil scrape the surface, while low oil pressure leads to direct metal contact, causing heat and wear. High temperatures also soften and deform the bearing shells, leading to failure. Improper cleaning during installation leaves residues that accelerate premature damage. Maintenance should not be neglected—timely oil and filter changes prevent major troubles. It's advised that car owners stick to scheduled maintenance and not skimp on these costs.