Threadloc on main bearing bolts?

[peterheywood52573]

The engine on my car was rebuilt 20 years ago, 20k ago. There are no tab washers on the main bearing cap bolts. I have had to run a tap down the bolt holes, to get the bolts to drive in freely. It might be that threadloc was used on the rebuild. I wondered whether to use it on this rebuild.
Peter

[piman]

Hello Peter,

no I don't think it's necessary. Just ensure that they are at the correct torque.

Alec

[peterheywood52573]

Hi again Alec,
In the meantime I bought new tab washers. I felt I ought to have tab washers or threadloc. I dont have a great faith in either. At least the tab washers worked in the 60s.
Peter

[piman]

Hello Peter,

yes tab washers work, although on the probably ten or so engines I've worked om I've never come across a loose main or big end fastener.
As an aside my favoured method is wire locking, easy with the right tools.

Alec