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Your Vehicle  //  Porsche  //  356 (1950-1965)  //  356A 1955-59

Engine Bearings / Shells

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DISPLAYING 1 to 16 (of 17 products)
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PLASKIT
Product Information
Product Information
Bearing clearance gauge kit


Kit includes:
1 x Plastigauge PL-A box 
1 x Plastiguage Mineral grease 
1 x Plastiguage Silicone grease 

PLASTIGAUGE PL-A is widely used in the measurement of clearance in plain automotive bearings. Measurement of clearance in big-end bearings can be achieved without dismantling the crankshaft.

3G Minerak Grease: To coat journal prior to use of Plastigauge 
3G Silicone Grease: To apply to surface of shell





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PLASKIT
PLA007
PLA008

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PLA007
Product Information
Product Information
Bearing clearance gauge pack
100 Plasigauge strips per box



PLASTIGAUGE PL-A is widely used in the measurement of clearance in plain automotive bearings. Measurement of clearance in big-end bearings can be achieved without dismantling the crankshaft.

For measurements of: 0.001″ to 0.007″ (0.025mm – 0.175mm)

Suitable for use at temperatures between 0°C and 35°C

Contents: 

  • 100 gauges (each 10cm in length)
  • Measurement reading cards (mm & inches)
  • Instructions
  • We highly recommend the use of Silicone and Mineral greases. 



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PLA007
PL-A

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
Special Order item
61610314262
Product Information
Product Information

Big End Bearing Shell, 0.50 mm Inner Undersize
Sold each - 8 required per car

This replacement big end bearing shell is designed for Porsche 356 and 912 engines with a crankshaft that has been reground to the corresponding 0.50 mm undersize specification.

Fits:

  • Porsche 911 1965-1968 912 SWB (F)
  • Porsche 356 1950-55
  • Porsche 356A 1955-59
  • Porsche 356B 1959-63
  • Porsche 356C 1963-65

Diagram Ref No 1

The bearing provides a low-friction surface between the connecting rod and crankshaft journal, helping maintain correct oil clearance and protect internal engine components.

What Does It Do?

The big end bearing supports the connecting rod on the crankshaft journal, allowing smooth rotation while maintaining a protective film of engine oil between moving surfaces.

Why Does It Fail?

Common causes include:

  • Insufficient oil pressure or lubrication
  • Contaminated engine oil
  • Excessive engine wear
  • Incorrect bearing clearance
  • Engine overheating

When Should It Be Replaced?

Replace during an engine rebuild when the existing bearings show scoring, excessive wear or damage.

A 0.50 mm undersize bearing is required only when the crankshaft journals have been machined to the corresponding specification.

Checks & Installation

Measure crankshaft journal dimensions and bearing oil clearances before installation.

Inspect the connecting rods, crankshaft surfaces and oil passages for wear or damage. Installation should follow Porsche engine rebuilding specifications.

Key Features

  • Replacement connecting rod big end bearing shell
  • Porsche reference 61610314262 0.50 mm inner undersize
  • Suitable for specified Porsche 356 and 912 engines
  • Supports correct crankshaft lubrication
  • Sold individually – 8 shells required per engine

Porsche 356 & 912 Big End Bearings and Engine Rebuild Parts

Big end bearing shells are essential components of the Porsche 356 and 912 flat-four engine, supporting the connecting rods and protecting crankshaft journals from metal-to-metal contact.

Selecting the correct bearing size is critical when rebuilding an engine with a reground crankshaft.



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61610314262
61610314262

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Special Order item
61610314272
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Product Information
Big End Con Rod Bearing EACH. 8 per engine. 0.75MM INNER UNDERSIZE



Fits:
Porsche 912 1965-69
Porsche 356 1300 / 1500 / 1600

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 20



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61610314272
61610314202
71-1971

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61610314252/1
Product Information
Product Information
Big End Con Rod Bearing Set. 0.25MM INNER UNDERSIZE

Fits:
Porsche 912 1965-69
Porsche 356 1300 / 1500 / 1600

Engine Types 616.15, 616.16, 616.36, 616.39, 616.40,

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 20



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

61610314252
61610314252
71-1971
71-1971
87797610

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61610314262/1
Product Information
Product Information
Big End Con Rod Bearing Set. 0.50MM INNER UNDERSIZE

Fits:
Porsche 912 1965-69
Porsche 356 1300 / 1500 / 1600

Engine Types 616.15, 616.16, 616.36, 616.39, 616.40,

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 20



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

61610314262
61610314202
71-1971
71-1971
87797620

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61610314202/1
Product Information
Product Information
Big End Con Rod Bearing Set STD Size. SET OF 8

Glyco Ref: 71-1971/4 STD
Engine Types 616.15, 616.16, 616.36, 616.39, 616.40,

Fits:
Porsche 912 1965-69
Porsche 356 1300 / 1500 / 1600

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram ref no 20

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

61610314202
61610314202
71-1971
71-1971
87797600

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61610314272/1
Product Information
Product Information

OE Match big end con rod bearing set.

Fits

  • Porsche 912 1965-69
  • Porsche 356 1300 / 1500 / 1600

Check fitment for your specific vehicle (model, year, engine) before ordering.

Diagram ref number: 20

What This Product Does

These bearing shells sit between the connecting-rod big ends and crankshaft journals. With the correct clearance and oil supply, they provide a lubricated interface that accommodates rotation and transfers combustion loads through the connecting rods.

Functions

  • Provide the bearing interface at the connecting-rod big ends.
  • Maintain space for the lubricating oil film when correctly matched and installed.
  • Distribute loads across the crankshaft journal bearing surfaces.

Technical Details

  • Supplied part reference: 61610314272.
  • Bearing specification: 0.75mm inner undersize.
  • Product type: big end connecting-rod bearing set.

Symptoms of Fault

Possible signs of bearing wear include a knock or rumble under load, reduced oil pressure when hot, and metal particles found during oil or filter inspection. Scoring on removed shells also warrants investigation. These findings are not exclusive to con rod bearings, so establish the cause before selecting replacement parts.

Why Replacement Matters

Renewing worn shells forms part of restoring the specified bearing clearance during engine repair. Inspect the crankshaft journals and connecting rods, measure the assembled clearance, and investigate lubrication problems or contamination before reassembly. New bearings alone will not correct damaged journals or an unresolved oil-supply fault.

FAQs

Can I choose these bearings by vehicle model alone?
No. The 0.75mm inner undersize must also match the crankshaft's measured condition and machining specification.

What can cause premature bearing wear?
Insufficient lubrication, contaminated oil, overheating and incorrect assembly clearances can contribute.

What should be checked during replacement?
Inspect journal surfaces, measure bearing clearances and identify any debris or oil-system fault responsible for the original wear.



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61610314272
61610314272
313 09 349
313093490322

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LM3045
Product Information
Product Information

LIQUI MOLY LM 48 Spray Paste – 300ml 

LIQUI MOLY LM 48 Spray Paste is a heavy-duty assembly and maintenance lubricant designed to reduce friction, prevent wear and protect metal components against corrosion.

Its molybdenum disulphide-based formulation provides excellent adhesion, even on smooth surfaces, making it particularly useful when assembling bearings, bushes, pins and sliding components.

What Does It Do?

LM 48 Spray Paste forms a strongly adhering lubricating film on metal surfaces, helping prevent direct metal-to-metal contact.

It is particularly useful for protecting components during assembly and initial operation, reducing the risk of scoring, seizing and premature wear.

Why Is It Important?

Bearings, bushes, pins and sliding components can experience high pressure and friction during installation and operation.

Insufficient lubrication may cause:

  • Metal-to-metal contact Scoring and surface damage
  • Seized components Increased mechanical wear
  • Corrosion during service

LM 48 provides a protective lubricating layer to help minimise these problems.

When Should It Be Used?

Use during the assembly, repair or maintenance of suitable metal components, particularly:

  • Bearing and bush installation
  • Press-fitting pins and bearing bushes
  • Assembly of plain bearing rings
  • Lubrication of sliding guides
  • Basic lubrication of joints and small mechanical components

Do not apply to brake friction surfaces, belts or components requiring a specified alternative lubricant.

Application Instructions

  • Clean the surfaces before application.
  • Shake the aerosol thoroughly.
  • Spray a thin, even coating onto the required surfaces.
  • Avoid excessive application.
  • After use, invert the can and spray briefly to clear the nozzle.

Key Features

  • Contains molybdenum disulphide, graphite and other solid lubricants
  • Excellent adhesion to metal surfaces
  • Reduces friction and mechanical wear
  • Helps prevent scoring and seizing
  • Provides corrosion protection
  • Suitable for heavy-duty assembly applications
  • Emergency-running lubrication properties
  • Operating temperature range -35°C to +450°C

LIQUI MOLY Assembly Lubricants & Maintenance Sprays for Porsche

Correct lubrication during component assembly helps prevent premature wear, corrosion and damage to precision metal surfaces.

LIQUI MOLY LM 48 Spray Paste is suitable for a wide range of appropriate Porsche workshop applications, including bearing installation, suspension component assembly and lubrication of metal sliding surfaces.

Its high-pressure lubricating properties make it particularly useful during classic Porsche restoration and routine mechanical maintenance.

54610190175/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing set. Inner Oversize 0.25mm / Crankshaft Inner undersize 0.50mm.

Crankshaft house oversize 0,25mm

Crankshaft undersize 0,50mm

Fits:
Porsche 356 A/B/C 1600/S

Diagram Ref No 29



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

54610190175
313093300322
54610190175

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
54610190150/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing set. Inner Oversize 0.25mm.

Fits:
Porsche 356 A/B/C 1600/S

Diagram Ref No 29

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54610190150
313 09 326 03 22
313093260322
54610190150

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
54610190170/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing set. Inner Undersize 0.25mm / Outer Oversize 0.25mm.

Fits:
Porsche 356 A/B/C 1600/S

Diagram Ref No 29

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

54610190170
54610190170
313 09 329 03 22

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
54610190155/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing set. Inner Undersize 0.50mm.

Fits:
Porsche 356 A/B/C 1600/S

Diagram Ref No 29

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

54610190155
313 09 327 03 22
313093270322
54610190155

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
54610190160/1
Product Information
Product Information
Main bearing set. Outer Oversize 0.25mm.

Fits:
Porsche 356 A/B/C 1600/S

Click 'Zoom in' for large parts diagram.
Diagram Ref No 29

Related reference numbers
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54610190160
313093280322
313 09 328 03 22
54610190160

The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
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

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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

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DISPLAYING 1 to 16 (of 17 products)
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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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