Hi. I have a brand spanking new crank and rods that have grown some minor rust on the journals. What can I use to remove it? Do I have to have them machined? I already have the stock sized bearings to fit it. If I have to machine it, would I have to buy oversize bearings to match? I just bought this motor in pieces. The new bearings have handwritten cylinder #'s on the boxes. Why would someone have written the cylinder #'s on them? Also, the crank, rods and pistons have been balanced. How critical is the rust on the journals? Thanks

As long as it's only a light dusting, try something like CLR or even vinegar to cut the rust. Rinse well with water and then spray with WD-40 to make sure it doesn't re-rust. If the shine is noticeably cut, take it to your local trusted shop and have them polish it for you. As long as it's surface only and the journals are not pitted, you'll be fine.

Use some 400 , 500, or 600 grit sandpaper and wd 40, and they will polish right up.

They more than likely already checked bearing clearance and that is why the cylinder numbers are on the bearings. And I agree, I have polished crank journals with 400 grit and a shoe string. Cut the paper the width of the journal, and wrap it around, wrap the string around it and pull it back and forth. Spray it with wd-40 before.

I will try to polish the journals with 400 grit and WD40. I hope it works. Thanks for all the help guys.