I have a D2 5U9429 which I'm in the process of doing an engine rebuild. I have now gotten all of the main and rod bearing at .030 and .025 under except the center main thrust. The only one I have been able to get is a std bore size. I'm now looking into getting the crank journal spray welded and machined to std. Has anyone had experience with doing this? I have reviewed the process with a potential machine house and I believe that they have a good process. Here is their website; www.ruttsmachine.com/crankshaft_rebuild.html

I once rebuilt an outboard motor, a Johnson 90 HP.

The crank was spray welded & ground. That was over 10 years ago, the motor still runs great...

Crankshaft done for a mid-30's ONAN electric light plant. The guy took it into an Engine Manufacturing plant and had it done at lunchtime. Then ground the crank back to original size to fit the only available bearings. They were spray welding in the mid 80's at this large engine manufacturing facility. I would assume it was used on cranks and cams?
I remember the demo in Trade School in the late 70's and they touted it would work on all types of shaft applications.

At the Cat dealer I worked for we had dozens of them spray welded and never had one bit of trouble with them.We had a few cams done too if I recall but not too often as they usually held up pretty well.We sent the cranks down to a place in Brooklyn NY but don,t know if he is in business anymore or not.

Halton Co. in Portland, OR got into metal spray several years ago. I understand they no longer do it and I havn't been able to find out why. Anybody know?

Hi Jack,
Don't know about Halton but it seems most of the crankshaft work as well as hydraulic cylinder work on the West Coast gets shipped to an outfit in Sacremento. Apparently due to dealing with lost art and craftmenship as well as the expensive equipment. Very rare to find a local machine shop that does this kind of work. None in my area.

OM
Do you have the Co. name in Sacramento for the crank spraying? I don't need it now but could in the future. Last crank I had sprayer was a Wisconsin off of a bailer and it is running fine (or as good as any Wisconsin ever ran) And a lot better then the junk that Kawasaki is selling. Last one I had failed at 140 hours and the factory rep said "tough sh-t" No more Junk Kawasaki engines for me! EVER!
Frank

Hi Frank,
I knew someone would ask when I posted......I don't have the name on hand but with a little research I can find out. Last crank I had done was relayed to the Sacramento source by local machine shop and I can't remember who did the hydraulic cylinder rod rebuild/plating. Guess I've got a homework assignment unless someone else knows.

The best way to find a shop that does weld buildup/rrepair of cranks is to start calling the industrial engine rebuilders in your area. It is not an uncommon practice with big engines.

Does anyone knowif the crank for the D2 is forged steel or cast?