Is it possible to change the main bearings in a 4 cyl. with the engine in place?

SURE BUT Y?

Im broke and unemployed...

If the mains are bad then chances are really, really good that the rods are bad, the timing gear is worn out, and the cylinders are worn out. The mains are usually the last thing to go unless the engine is run empty of oil, then everything is trashed.

What is making you think you need to replace your mains?

JazzMan

On the way home it overheated bad and it was low on oil. Its making alot of noise and its leaking oil like mad from the oil seal.

Sory but can you say Junk

for Temporary transport ,,add S T P to thicken oil,this will also slow leak ..you probably need 2 bottles...not sure how bad the noise is but if it sounds like some part will soon exit the craft(knocking,clanging)park it ..of course if you need transport you will probably drive it untill the rod attemps its personal moon launch.. STP provides a cushion between the worn parts to quiet the noise untill the countdown & noisy launch..I can not hear noise level ,only you can make decision to drive and finish off the engine

[This message has been edited by uhlanstan (edited 11-20-2007).]

If parts are soon to be exiting and your still driving, PLEASE get a fire extinguisher and carry it on the passenger floor. I hope you don't have to thank me later

If it's making a banging or knocking noise then the rod bearings are gone. They can be replaced in the car but it's very, very difficult because you have to lift the motor to get the mount off so that you can get the pan off. Plan on spending a full weekend under the car. Even though you can replace the rod bearings, the crank is likely damaged, especially if you've been driving it with the noise. Because of that, the bearings won't last, and even then, because of the severe overheat it's extremely likely that the cylinder head is cracked and if it isn't already leaking coolant into the cylinders and oil it will soon be.

Sorry to say, but your best bet is to start looking for a replacement, either car or motor, because your existing motor is pretty much at the end of its useful life.

JazzMan