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Description

Split Center Bearing Liner – Maintain Proper Center Crankshaft Support

The Split Center Bearing Liner 0310433 is a center crankshaft bearing sleeve used on select OMC, Johnson, Evinrude, Chrysler / Force, Mariner and Mercury outboard engines.

This split liner provides the running surface for the center crankshaft bearing assembly and works directly with the main retainer and needle bearing. Together, these components support the center section of the crankshaft and help maintain proper crankshaft alignment during engine operation.

Because the crankshaft operates under significant combustion loads and high RPM, the condition of both the bearing and its mating liner is critical. Installing a new bearing against a damaged or worn liner can shorten bearing life and may allow excessive crankshaft movement.

Common Signs of a Worn or Damaged Center Bearing Liner

Possible symptoms or inspection findings may include:

• Knocking, rumbling, or growling noises from the powerhead
• Increased engine vibration
• Excessive crankshaft movement or play
• Rough or inconsistent engine operation
• Premature center bearing wear
• Scoring or grooves on the liner surface
• Pitting or corrosion
• Heat discoloration
• Uneven wear patterns
• Metal particles or debris inside the powerhead
• Roughness when rotating the crankshaft during inspection

Because many internal engine components can produce similar symptoms, proper inspection of the entire crankshaft and bearing assembly is important.

Why the Split Center Bearing Liner Matters

The center crankshaft bearing needs a smooth, correctly sized surface to operate against. The split bearing liner provides that surface.

If the liner becomes scored, worn, corroded, or distorted, the center bearing may no longer roll smoothly or maintain the proper operating clearance. This can increase friction and place additional stress on surrounding components, including:

• Center crankshaft bearing
• Crankshaft journal
• Upper and lower main bearings
• Connecting rod bearings
• Crankshaft seals
• Crankcase bearing surfaces

Maintaining proper center bearing support is especially important in two-stroke engines that routinely operate at elevated RPM.

Key Features & Benefits

• Supports the Center Crankshaft Bearing – Provides the mating surface for the main bearing assembly
• Helps Maintain Crankshaft Alignment – Proper liner condition supports stable crankshaft rotation
• Promotes Smooth Bearing Operation – A clean, undamaged liner helps reduce friction and abnormal wear
• Protects the New Bearing – Replacing a damaged liner helps prevent premature wear of the center bearing
• Ideal for Powerhead Rebuilds – Important inspection and replacement item during crankshaft service
• Performance & Racing Application – Useful for engines subjected to sustained RPM and heavy loads

When Should Split Bearing Liner Be Replaced?

Replacement should be considered when:

• The liner surface is scored or grooved
• Pitting or corrosion is visible
• The liner shows heat discoloration
• Excessive center-bearing clearance is found
• The mating center bearing has failed
• Metal contamination has circulated through the engine
• The crankshaft has suffered internal damage
• The engine experienced a lubrication-related failure
• The powerhead is being rebuilt and liner condition is questionable

During a complete engine rebuild, the center bearing liner should never be overlooked simply because it has no moving parts. Its surface condition directly affects how the center bearing operates.

Powerhead Rebuild Recommendation

When servicing the center bearing area, inspect the complete crankshaft support system, including:

• Split center bearing liner
• Center crankshaft bearing
• Crankshaft journal
• Upper crankshaft bearing
• Lower crankshaft bearing
• Connecting rod bearings
• Crankshaft seals
• Crankcase bearing surfaces

Performance & Racing Considerations

For performance and racing applications, center bearing condition becomes especially important because the crankshaft spends significant time at elevated RPM and under sustained load.

At Liquid Revolutions, we know that a powerhead is only as reliable as the components supporting its rotating assembly. A smooth, properly fitted center bearing liner helps the bearing operate correctly, keeps the crankshaft stable, and reduces the chance of avoidable wear during high-RPM operation.

Whether you’re rebuilding a recreational Johnson/Evinrude outboard or refreshing a performance or race motor, inspecting and replacing a damaged center bearing liner is an important part of building a reliable powerhead.

Always verify your engine model number, year, and OEM part number before ordering to confirm proper fitment.