Rolls-Royce Phantom III - big end shell alternatives

The following information is the result of my investigations for alternative shells to the Halls Metal items originally fitted to 'D' series engines and also used on 'A,B,C' series engines when converted from white metal.  The replacement shells will need to be reduced in width and be mounted in pairs side by side.  This method was successfully pioneered by Wally Donahue in the 1970s on standard 'A,B,C' series engines using Cadillac shells.

This information is provided for information only.  If anyone wishes to follow my lead I accept no responsibility for the results and strongly recommend that they carry out their own research first.

Inner shells

The Rolls-Royce nominal dimensions (inches) :-

The following references are all from Ford and are for unflanged main bearings with locating lugs. The engines are straight 4 or straight 6 but use identical bearing dimensions; the reference numbers are shown for both types. The bearings appear to have been in use from 1960 up to at least 1994.  Housing diameter is slightly larger than R-R nominal so will require the bearing housing to be eased by about 0.002" as well as slotting for the locating lugs.  UK bearings of this type are 025 or 050 pin undersize (bearing oversize).  US bearing oversizes are available at Std, 010, 020, 030.

UK references

Ford nominal dimensions:-

Ford Fiesta

These bearings were produced for use in the engine reconditioning market and were for an oversized housing.  Four sets will be required using this bearing kit.

US references

Ford nominal dimensions:-

Ford 4 cylinder cars:-
140/2.3L OHV L-4 HSC 3.680" bore 1984-94
153/2.5L OHV L-4 HSC 3.680" bore 1986-91

Ford 6 cylinder cars:-
144/2.4L OHV L-6 3.500" bore 1960-64
170/2.8L OHV L-6 3.500" bore 1961-72
200/3.3L OHV L-6 3.680" bore 1963-83
trucks:-
144/2.4L OHV L-6 3.500" bore 1960-64
170/2.8L OHV L-6 3.500" bore 1961-72
200/3.3L OHV L-6 3.680" bore 1964-74

Outer shell - blade rod