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Formhalls Vintage & Racing Ltd

Very early engines were fitted with bronze crankshaft bearings, that never ran (melted) or gave any of the other problems associated with the more basic white metals.

A turn of the century (20th!) George Richard - Here we have converted the original bronze main bearings to white metal

First introduced by Babbitt over a century ago white metal has evolved into the complex anti friction materials we use today. Babbitts original reason for developing white metal (or Babbitt alloy) was to produce a bearing material that would protect the crankshaft from the wear caused by abrasive particles carried around in the oil. Because white metal is relatively soft, these particles embed into the surface of the bearing thus protecting the crankshaft from their abrasive effect.

Of course new crank shafts can be made to replace the originals - This is a new Austin 7 crankshaft from the excellent Phoenix Crankshafts company. In the background are the original Austin 7 rods which have been shot peened for strength and are ready for re-metaling

Because of their reliability we will only use HOYT Darchems 11R and 11Z3 metals - after all, vintage engines can take several hundred hours to recondition and the crankshaft bearings are the foundations on which all that time and effort is built.

Hoyt's 11R & 11Z3 are relatively hard for white metals, but not too hard (Babbitts original embedability principles still apply). 11R & 11Z3 were developed for Diesel, Aircraft and Racing engines and therefore represent a significant upgrade on the metals originally used in most engines. We recommend 11R for most applications and 11Z3 for engines operating under extreme conditions with hardened cranks.

The casting of white metal bearings requires extreme concentration and care, combined with experience and skill. 

There are so many variables that can make the difference between a good and a bad bearing, making it a very difficult process to master successfully. 

We are proud of the repeat business and recommendations we receive from both our Private enthusiasts and Trade customers, who have successfully road, track and air tested our bearings over many thousands of miles.

             To contact us: Phone 01725 511684    

                                    Fax 01725 511684     

Email: Enquiries@formhalls.com 

Formhalls Vintage & Racing Ltd. Greycott, Lower Densome Wood, Woodgreen, 

New Forest, Hampshire, SP6 2BE England

(Callers by appointment only please)

   _{Practicing Preserving and Passing on British Tradition}