Flexibility is required for the crankshaft as might have been the case for opposed piston engines with large distances between the main bearing.
The vertical misalignment figures shown in figure 2.24 give the reader information that the end main bearing adjacent to No. 1 cylinder and the main bearing between and 4 cylinders are high. Vertical and horizontal misalignments can be checked against the permissible values supplied by the engine builder, often in the form of a graph. If any values exceed or equal maximum permissible values then bearings will have to be adjusted or renewed where required. Indication of incorrect bearing clearances may be given when the engine is running. In the case of medium- or high-speed diese load reversal at the bearings generally occurs. With excessive clearances loud bearing knocking takes place and then white metal usually gets hammered out
If bearing lubrication for a unit is from a the same source as piston cooling, then decrease in the amount of cooling oil glass return may be observed in the sight together with an increase in its temperature. If bearing clearances are too small, overheating and possible seizure may take place. Increased oil mist and vapour at a particular unit may be observed together with an increase in bearing temperature which could then lead to a crankcase explosion. Regular checks must be made to in the oxidation rate of the oil. If this increases high temperatures encountered and as the oil oxidises (burns) its colour blackens
The use of wireless technology is due to enter the industry by storm once system become reliable for use in the marine environment where the transmission of information must be 100% accurate inside what is places essentially a steel box. However there are some places