The Right Way to Replace Pump Bearings: A Step-by-Step Guide for Reliable Operation

Longevity and performance often come down to the smallest components - like the bearings inside your connecting rods and crankshaft. Over time, even these high-precision parts experience wear. And when they do, knowing exactly how to replace and adjust them is key to keeping your pump running smoothly and minimizing costly downtime.

Whether you're maintaining a Wheatley Gaso pump or another high-pressure system, this guide walks through best practices for replacing and adjusting crosshead and crankshaft bearings, with key tolerances and expert tips to get the job done right.

Replacing Crosshead-End Connecting Rod Bearings

If you're working with Gaso pump models 1550, 1563, 2017, 2050, 2063, 1654, 1755, 1743, 1753, 2651, 2652, or 1931, here's what you need to know about the bronze bushings found in the connecting rod’s crosshead end.

Step 1: Disassembly
To replace the bronze bushing, start by removing the connecting rod and crosshead assembly from the pump. Once out, press out the crosshead pin and remove the worn bushing.

Step 2: Installation
After pressing a new bushing into the connecting rod, you’ll need to ream it for proper clearance on the crosshead pin. Each series of pump has its own ideal clearance range:

  • 1800 Series: 0.002” – 0.005”
  • 1600 & 1500 Series: 0.003” – 0.006”
  • 1700 Series: 0.003” – 0.006”
  • 2600 Series: 0.004” – 0.007”

Precision is key here—too tight and you’ll get binding, too loose and you risk premature wear.

Before reinstalling the crosshead pin, carefully inspect both the pin and crosshead for any damage or signs of excessive wear. If all looks good, use a press to install the pin and apply anti-seize compound to help with future maintenance and to prevent galling.

Servicing the Crankshaft Bearings

The crankshaft is the heart of your pump’s drive mechanism, and its single tapered roller bearings are vital to smooth rotation. These are splash-lubricated from the oil in the crankcase, so cleanliness and proper lubrication go a long way in preserving their function.

Routine Maintenance Tip: Clean and inspect crankshaft bearings thoroughly during every oil change or, at a minimum, every six months.

Adjusting End Play for Crankshaft Bearings

Each Gaso pump series has a specific end play tolerance that must be measured while the pump is cold:

  • 1800 Series: 0.001” – 0.003”
  • 1590 & 1600 Series: 0.002” – 0.004”
  • 1700 Series: 0.003” – 0.005”

To adjust the end play:

  1. Disconnect the connecting rods.
  2. Remove more shims than necessary from under the bearing housing.
  3. Tighten the bearing housing until the crankshaft binds slightly when rotated by hand.
  4. Use a feeler gauge to measure the gap left by the removed shims.
  5. Add shim thickness equal to the gap plus 0.001”–0.003” to restore correct clearance.
  6. Retorque bearing housing cap screws.

This process ensures that the bearings are snug, but not overly tight, allowing smooth operation once the pump heats up and expands.

What About Series 2600?

The 2600 Series requires preload, not clearance. You’re aiming for 0.012”–0.013” of preload. Here’s how to achieve that:

  • Try different shim combinations until you feel a slight drag while rolling the shaft by hand.
  • Then, remove 0.012”–0.013” worth of shims to lock in the preload.

Installing New Bearing Cones

Sometimes, replacing bearing cones is unavoidable. To install new cones properly:

  • Heat them in 280°F oil to allow for easier pressing.
  • Make sure they seat firmly against the crankshaft shoulder.
  • Caution: Applying heat improperly during this step may void the bearing’s warranty, so it’s best to stick to the recommended oil bath method.

Conclusion

Bearings are among the most critical components to your pumping system. Getting them installed correctly and within spec ensures smooth, long-lasting operation. Whether you're replacing bushings at the crosshead or adjusting crankshaft end play, precision and care pay dividends in uptime and equipment life.

Need help sourcing replacement bearings or tools for the job? Reach out to IEQ Industries for expert support and component recommendations.