It this note in the service manual tha leads me to think that you can and should mix colors to get the in spec clearance.

When using bearing halves of different colors, it does not mater which color is used on the top or bottom.

Also in my book there is only single color specs for the rod bearings and you listed a mixed color.

 

Here is a screenshot of my manual (german, but the colors are in english).

 

Yeah, Mine is the exactly same. I assume that is the main bearings, I don't read german.

The connecting rods table is single color. Unless your manual only has a single table.

 

Yes, it's the main bearing table, the rod bearing table is single color only. But the system matches with the between both tables.
You can use green or brown shell bearings for the rods.

Means: you can use all black bearing shells for the main journals and all brown shells for the rod journals. Right?

 

I agree. The table are basically the same.

Yea, I get that and that is my plan to start. We will see what the clearance is then.


Like I said, I was looking to nail down WTF Honda was trying to say with that statement in the manual.

 

Billman? SlowS2k? Anyone else that has rebuilt or replaced the bearing on an motor?

 

BUMP

 

I have never even considered using bearings of different colors on one journal. Theoretically, it sounds like a bad idea.

The difference between all the colors is so slight, I couldn't imagine using two different colors to fall halfway between one color and another.

 

Im replacing bearings now and dont have a clue which ones I need to buy.

I think the colours have worn off the ones that were pulled out as well.

Can anyone advise which ones need to be replaced when changing pistons and rods.

 

You need to calculate the bearing color from the markings on the two parts that will be connected. There are numbers or letter on the block and crank for the mains and numbers or letters on the block and rods for the rod bearings.