which main and rod bearing to check first?

[Tom Goldman]

Originally Posted by pmrphil

Normally I'll look at #2 and #4 mains, as any crank flex usually shows up there first.

Always #2 & #4 on the mains ,even if the rods look good ,which they sometimes do, those two mains are the precursors to doom !

[MAURICE BLENDHEIM]

If the pan is off. Why not check all of them for the time it takes? That way you won't be wondering. MB.

[Dyno]

I used to buy 454 core Chev engines. If 5 & 6 rod bearings were good, the rest were good. If they were bad, you usually would find a burned main bearing.

[Mike Taylor 3601]

Originally Posted by MAURICE BLENDHEIM

If the pan is off. Why not check all of them for the time it takes? That way you won't be wondering. MB.

The ones you don't check will be where a problem is.

jims5600,
If have thrust trouble may want to increase converter/pump clearance, that is one thing that is best to have at maximum clearance.I have always been told from 1/8 to 3/16,bottom converter in pump and come back out 3/16''. If doesn't have enough clearance when on the brake and converter balloons and puts more pressure against thrust. if auto is wearing thrust it is most likely that converter needs more clearance between it and the pump.
Mike Taylor 3601