What is the minimum rod bearing clearance with aluminum rods using synthetic oil?

Ed Mats
California

Hi Ed,

Thanks for the question. The answer to this question is like so many other racing related questions, it depends. As a very general rule of thumb, I like to see .001" of clearance per thousandth of diameter of the shaft plus another half thou for cushion. The synthetic oil part of the question is too vague because there is "0" weight synthetic all the way up to "50" weight and higher synthetic. Each can use different clearance. The BEST advice I can give to you is to call the manufacturer of the rods you have and tell them your combination and ask them for a recommendation. Some applications need LOTS more clearance than what I suggested. Some may need less. The type of bearing design and material also play a role.  Hope this helps.

Jay