G13BB Big End Bearings

Bearing set (4 required) - £30 each = £120

Wheel arch rubbers - £35 each   (limited stock across Europe at the moment and would need to check which "blue" as there are two

I don't have enough spare cash for either (hence trying to fix this myself), but thank you anyway!

I have known for the shells to break up leaving the crankshaft big ends in perfect condition, but this is unusual. Normally you can expect a degree of wear on the c/shaft and not just on the big ends. Although I have not dismantled the Jimny engine, removal of the sump should not pose a problem, you may need to lower the axle, but there are others on the forum who can advise as to any serious problems. It is usually possible to remove the sump and the oil pickup - it will probably be in the way - and then remove a big end shell cap which will then enable you to visually inspect the shell bearing and the crankshaft. If you find grooves or such in the c/shaft then fitting new shells is a waste of time. You will need to remove the engine for a bottom end strip to get the c/shaft out and then either have it ground or replaced. This is not a simple job and requires specialist knowledge and tools. You mentioned earlier that you were going to replace your present engine with a 1.6 litre model, so maybe you might think about doing that and not bothering with rebuilding your present motor. If on the other hand your c/shaft surfaces are ok, then check the mains while you are at it and if they are ok you should be able to swap just the big end shells without stripping the engine any further.

Roger

This is the plan! Just wanted some reassurance before I started taking things to bits.

On the fateful journey, about 5 mins in the loud clacking noise started so I got the rest of the way home (around 15 mins) so hopefully the damage won't be too critical. As most of anecdotes of this kind of problem (when cranks need grinding and new conrods) are when people keep driving the vehicle around for days/weeks.

I may follow up with some pictures and videos when I get hacking n smashing.

Sooo I've taken it to bits, checked all the big end bearings and they seem fine. I found this fragment in the sump. It seems to be a cast, then machined piece. It's non magnetic. Any ideas?

could be a piston skirt?
I lost a few of those on my moped when I was 17

Should be easy to see from below if any of the piston is missing something