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Your Vehicle  //  Porsche  //  356 (1950-1965)  //  Any
Porsche356 (1950-1965)Engine Rebuild Parts

Engine Bearings / Shells

Engine Bearings / Shells

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DISPLAYING 17 to 27 (of 27 products)
1 2
Main bearing set, 50mm crank. Porsche 356A / 356B 1600 / S - 313093310322, 54610190185
2
Main bearing set, 50mm crank. Porsche 356A / 356B 1600 / S
54610190185/1
Product Information
Product Information

OE Match main bearing set for Porsche 356A / 356B 1600 / S engines with a 50mm crank. This version combines a 0.25mm outer oversize with a 0.75mm inner undersize.

Fits

  • Porsche 356A / 356B 1600 / S


Diagram Ref No 29


What This Product Does
The main bearings provide the supporting interface between the crankshaft journals and the crankcase. Working with the engine lubrication system, they accommodate crankshaft rotation and distribute operating loads. Correctly selected dimensions are essential to establishing the specified running clearance during an engine rebuild.


Functions

  • Support the crankshaft within its crankcase mounting positions.
  • Provide a bearing surface for lubricated journal rotation.
  • Distribute forces transmitted through the crankshaft.
  • Help establish the required oil clearance when matched to measured components.


Technical Details

  • Supplied part reference: 54610190185.
  • Crank specification: 50mm.
  • Crankcase fit: first oversize, 0.25mm outer.
  • Crankshaft fit: third undersize, 0.75mm inner.
  • Internal diagram application identifies 1600 / S engines.
  • Brand: OE Match.


Symptoms of Fault

  • Rumbling or knocking from the engine, particularly under load.
  • Reduced oil pressure, including pressure falling as the engine warms.
  • Metallic particles found during oil or filter inspection.
  • Scoring or uneven wear discovered on dismantled bearing surfaces.


These findings require diagnosis rather than confirming a bearing fault on their own. Lubrication problems, contamination and worn crankshaft journals should be investigated before new bearings are installed.


Why Replacement Matters
Renewing worn main bearings forms part of rebuilding the crankshaft support assembly. The replacement dimensions must suit both the crankcase housing and the crankshaft journals; choosing by vehicle model alone is insufficient. Inspect the supporting components and investigate any previous lubrication failure before reassembly to reduce the likelihood of recurring damage.


FAQs

Is this a standard-dimension set?
No. It is specified with 0.25mm outer oversize and 0.75mm inner undersize dimensions.

What needs measuring before installation?
Check the crankshaft journals, crankcase bearing housings and resulting oil clearances against the applicable engine specifications.

Does low oil pressure prove the bearings are worn?
No. Bearing wear is one possible cause; the lubrication system and the condition of related components also need assessment.



Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

54610190185
313093310322
54610190185

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - 0.25mm Case oversize - 61610013850, 61610013870, 61610013875, 61610013885
1
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - 0.25mm Case oversize
616100138
Product Information
Product Information
This is a brand new Set of Main Bearings for Porsche 356C / 912 available in most common Porsche sizes, Some sizes also available with plus 1mm Thrust to make it easier to save an old case with a wore out trust
Oversize: 0.25mm Case

Engine: Porsche 356C and 912

Sizes available: in "MM"

0.25mm Case / STD Crank
0.25mm Case / STD Crank / Thrust +1mm
0.25mm Case / 0.25mm Crank
0.25mm Case / 0.25mm Crank / Thrust +1mm
0.25mm Case / 0.50mm Crank

Please Pick size when ordering below:

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

616100138
61610013850
61610013870
61610013875
61610013885

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - 0.50 case oversize - 61610013055
2
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - 0.50 case oversize
616100138
Product Information
Product Information
Set Of Main Bearings For Porsche 356C / 912.
Oversize: 0.50 mm Case
Restore correct crankshaft support, oil clearance, and dependable engine operation with this OE Match Set of Main Bearings for Porsche 356C and Porsche 912, available under references 61610013895A, 61610013895AO1, 616100138100A, and 61610013890A.

Engine: Porsche 356C and 912

Sizes available: in "MM"

0.50mm Case / STD Crank
0.50mm Case / STD Crank / Thrust +1mm
0.50mm Case / 0.25mm Crank
0.50mm Case / 0.25mm Crank / Thrust +1mm
0.50mm Case / 0.50mm Crank

Please Pick size when ordering below:

Main bearings are precision internal engine components located between the crankshaft main journals and the engine crankcase. Their purpose is to support the crankshaft while allowing it to rotate smoothly on a controlled film of pressurised engine oil. Correct bearing clearances are essential for maintaining lubrication, controlling crankshaft movement, reducing friction, and protecting the crankshaft and crankcase from excessive wear.  

What This Product Does:
  • Supports the crankshaft within the engine crankcase.
  • Provides a precision running surface for the crankshaft main journals.
  • Allows the crankshaft to rotate smoothly on a lubricating oil film.
  • Helps maintain correct crankshaft alignment.
  • Controls radial crankshaft movement.
  • Helps control crankshaft end float where applicable.
  • Reduces direct metal-to-metal contact and friction.
  • Supports correct engine oil clearances and lubrication.
  • Protects crankshaft journals against excessive wear.
  • Withstands substantial combustion and rotational loads.
  • Replaces worn or damaged main bearings during an engine rebuild.
  • Is intended for compatible Porsche 356C and Porsche 912 engine applications.

Symptoms Of Wear Or Failure:
  • Low engine oil pressure.
  • Oil pressure becoming particularly low when the engine is hot.
  • Deep knocking or rumbling noises from the lower engine.
  • Excessive crankshaft movement or end float.
  • Metallic particles or bearing material in the engine oil.
  • Metallic debris in the oil filter or strainer.
  • Excessive main bearing clearance during engine inspection.
  • Scoring or abnormal wear of the crankshaft journals.
  • Scratched, pitted, or discoloured bearing surfaces.
  • Evidence of bearing overheating or oil starvation.
  • Uneven or accelerated crankshaft journal wear.
  • Serious internal engine damage in advanced cases.

Why Replacement Matters:

  • Main bearings are fundamental to the reliability of the engine because they support and locate the crankshaft every time the engine operates. Combustion forces place considerable loads on the crankshaft, and the bearings must maintain a precise lubricated clearance while allowing smooth rotation.
  • As main bearings wear, the clearance between the bearing surface and crankshaft journal can increase. Excessive clearance can reduce oil pressure, increase crankshaft movement, and accelerate wear of both the bearings and crankshaft journals. This can eventually result in knocking, poor lubrication, and deterioration of other internal engine components.
  • Severe bearing wear can cause the protective oil film to break down, resulting in direct metal-to-metal contact. This may generate excessive heat, score or damage the crankshaft, contaminate the lubrication system with bearing material, and potentially cause major engine failure.
  • Correct bearing sizing is especially important when rebuilding a classic Porsche 356C or Porsche 912 engine. Previous crankshaft grinding or crankcase machining can change the required bearing dimensions, meaning a standard-size bearing set may no longer provide the correct running clearance.
  • Replacing worn components with the correctly sized OE Match Main Bearing Set – 61610013895A, 61610013895AO1, 616100138100A, or 61610013890A – for Porsche 356C / 912 helps restore correct crankshaft support, oil clearance, lubrication, and dependable engine performance.



Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

616100138
61610013055

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - STD Case size - 54610190100
1
Main Bearing set. Porsche 356C / 912 - STD Case size
616100138
Product Information
Product Information
This is a brand new Set of Main Bearings for Porsche 356C / 912 available in most common Porsche sizes, Some sizes also available with plus 1mm Thrust to make it easier to save an old case with a wore out trust.
STD Case size

Engine: Porsche 356C and 912

Sizes available: in "MM"

STD Case / STD Crank
STD Case / 0.25mm Crank
STD Case / 0.50mm Crank

Please Pick size when ordering.

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

616100138
54610190100

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main bearing shell, II. One half. Porsche 356 B Carrera GS / GT - 58710113200
2
Main bearing shell, II. One half. Porsche 356 B Carrera GS / GT
Special Order item
58710113200
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing shell, II. One half.
Sold each.

Fits:
Porsche 356 B Carrera GS  1962-63 (Engine type: 5871)
Porsche 356 B Carrera GR/GT 1963 (Engine type: 5872)

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 16

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

58710113200
58710113200

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main bearing shell, II. One half. Porsche 356 B Carrera GS / GT - 58710113200
2
Main bearing shell, II. One half. Porsche 356 B Carrera GS / GT
58710113200/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing shell, II. One half.
Sold each.

Fits:
Porsche 356 B Carrera GS  1962-63 (Engine type: 5871)
Porsche 356 B Carrera GR/GT 1963 (Engine type: 5872)

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 16

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

58710113200
58710113200

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main crankshaft bearing set 0.50mm undersize. Porsche 356 1600 S90 - 92810190162
2
Main crankshaft bearing set 0.50mm undersize. Porsche 356 1600 S90
61610013055/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main crankshaft bearing set.
inner -0.50mm undersize.

Fits:
Porsche 356 Super 90 1960-63

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 34

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

61610013055
92810190162

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main crankshaft bearing set Standard. Porsche 356A / 356B - 54610190100, 313 09 325
2
Main crankshaft bearing set Standard. Porsche 356A / 356B
54610190100/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main Crankshaft Bearing Set, Standard.
The OE Match Main Crankshaft Bearing Set, Standard is a premium-quality replacement engine bearing kit designed to support the crankshaft and maintain precise rotational alignment in compatible Porsche engines. Manufactured to OE specifications for fit, material quality and durability, this standard-size main bearing set restores the correct bearing clearances between the crankshaft and engine block, ensuring optimum oil pressure, smooth crankshaft rotation and long-term engine reliability.

Fits:
  • Porsche 356A 1955-59
  • Porsche 356B 1959-63  

Diagram Ref No 13

Manufactured from premium tri-metal bearing materials with a precision-machined bearing surface, each bearing shell is engineered to provide exceptional load-carrying capacity, low friction characteristics and excellent resistance to wear under demanding operating conditions. Designed for direct OE-style installation, this standard-size bearing set is ideal for engine rebuilds where the crankshaft journals remain within original factory specifications.  

What This Product Does:
  • Supports the crankshaft within the engine block.
  • Maintains precise crankshaft bearing clearances.
  • Allows smooth, low-friction crankshaft rotation.
  • Maintains correct engine oil pressure.
  • Reduces friction and wear between the crankshaft and engine block.
  • Supports reliable engine lubrication.
  • Restores factory engine operating tolerances.
  • Forms an essential part of the engine bottom-end assembly.

Symptoms Of Wear Or Failure:
  • Low engine oil pressure.
  • Knocking or rumbling noises from the lower engine.
  • Excessive crankshaft movement.
  • Metal particles present in the engine oil or oil filter.
  • Increased engine vibration.
  • Accelerated wear of the crankshaft journals.
  • Poor lubrication of internal engine components.
  • Engine overheating due to increased friction.
  • Loss of engine performance.
  • Catastrophic engine failure in severe cases.

Why Replacement Matters:

  • The main crankshaft bearings support the crankshaft while maintaining a thin film of pressurised engine oil between the bearing surface and the crankshaft journals. They are subjected to enormous combustion loads, constant rotational forces and continuous lubrication. Over time, normal wear, contamination or insufficient lubrication can damage the bearing surfaces, increasing bearing clearances and reducing oil pressure.
  • Worn main bearings can lead to excessive crankshaft movement, reduced lubrication efficiency and accelerated wear of critical engine components. If left unresolved, bearing failure can result in severe crankshaft damage and complete engine failure.
  • Replacing worn bearings with the OE Match Main Crankshaft Bearing Set restores the engine's bottom-end integrity, correct bearing clearances and stable oil pressure. Manufactured to OE standards using premium tri-metal bearing construction, this standard-size bearing set provides factory-style fitment, exceptional durability and dependable long-term performance, making it the ideal choice for Porsche engine rebuilds and professional restoration projects.



Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

54610190100
54610190100
313 09 325

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main crankshaft bearing set. Porsche 356 B - 61610013000
2
Main crankshaft bearing set. Porsche 356 B
61610013000/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main crankshaft bearing set. Standard.

Fits:
Porsche 356 B 1600 S90 1960-63

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 34

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

61610013000
61610013000

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Main crankshaft bearing set. Porsche 356B 1600 S90 - 61610013050
2
Main crankshaft bearing set. Porsche 356B 1600 S90
61610013050/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main crankshaft bearing set.
inner -0.25mm undersize / STD outer

Fits:
Porsche 356B 1600 Super 90 1960-63

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 34

Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.

61610013050
61610013050

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Silicone and mineral bearing grease pack, Plastigauge.
1
Silicone and mineral bearing grease pack, Plastigauge.
PLA008
Product Information
Product Information
Silicone and mineral bearing grease.

3G Mineral Grease: To coat journal prior to use of Plastigauge 

3G Silicone Grease: To apply to surface of shell

Lubricants to assist with the measurement of clearance in automotive bearings.

Plastigauge Precision Clearance Gauges



DISPLAYING 17 to 27 (of 27 products)
1 2
Also found on these pages
About Engine Bearings / Shells

Engine Shell Bearings – Precision Big End, Con Rod & Thrust Bearings for Porsche Engines

Engine shell bearings are the unsung heroes of an engine's architecture — ensuring smooth, friction-free motion between the crankshaft, connecting rods, and engine block. They play a vital role in maintaining oil clearance, supporting rotation, and absorbing load during combustion.

At Design911, we supply a full range of precision-engineered shell bearings, including big end bearings, connecting rod (con rod) bearings, and thrust bearings, designed for both classic air-cooled and modern water-cooled Porsche engines. Manufactured to high-grade tolerances, our bearings provide exceptional load capacity, surface finish, and oil film stability — guaranteeing reliability even under extreme performance conditions.

Whether you’re carrying out a rebuild, refresh, or performance upgrade, our manufacturer-quality bearings deliver the balance, durability, and precision demanded by Porsche enthusiasts and engine builders worldwide.

What Do Engine Shell Bearings Do?

Shell bearings create a low-friction interface between rotating and stationary engine parts, allowing the crankshaft and connecting rods to spin freely under heavy load.

Core Functions:

  • Support crankshaft and con rod rotation with minimal friction.
  • Maintain correct oil clearance for consistent lubrication.
  • Absorb and distribute combustion forces evenly across the crank journals.
  • Reduce wear and vibration, enhancing engine longevity.

Without these bearings, metal-to-metal contact would occur, resulting in catastrophic engine failure.

Why Do Engine Bearings Fail?

Even high-performance bearings wear over time, particularly when exposed to heat, contamination, or oil pressure issues. Failure can lead to increased friction, engine noise, or complete bearing seizure.

Common Causes of Bearing Failure Include:

  • Oil starvation or low oil pressure, causing direct metal contact.
  • Contaminated or degraded engine oil, introducing abrasive particles.
  • Improper clearance or installation, leading to uneven wear.
  • Overheating from excessive load or detonation.
  • Bearing fatigue or material degradation after prolonged use.

Signs of bearing wear include knocking sounds, low oil pressure warnings, or visible scoring on bearing surfaces. Immediate replacement is critical to prevent damage to the crankshaft and engine block.

Why Replace with Precision-Grade Bearings?

Installing new, precision-matched bearings during an engine rebuild ensures proper oil clearance, smooth operation, and reliable power delivery.

Key Benefits:

  • Restores optimal oil pressure and lubrication performance.
  • Eliminates knocking and vibration caused by worn bearings.
  • Prevents crankshaft scoring and internal wear.
  • Crafted from tri-metal or bi-metal alloys for superior strength and durability.
  • Precision-machined tolerances ensure consistent performance and fitment.
  • Compatible with a wide range of Porsche engines, from air-cooled 911s to GT models.

Replacing worn shell bearings is a vital step in any Porsche engine rebuild, ensuring the longevity and smoothness that define the marque’s performance heritage.

Highlights:

  • Comprehensive range of big end, con rod, and thrust bearings.
  • Precision-engineered to motorsport standards for high-load durability.
  • Tri-metal and bi-metal alloy constructions for strength and thermal stability.
  • Ensures consistent oil clearance and pressure balance.
  • Ideal for rebuilds, restorations, and high-performance applications.
  • Perfect fitment for Porsche air-cooled and water-cooled engines.

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