main and big end bearing sizing 1.9DG WBX

[wcumbriangasman]

Hi club 80-90
My first post so here goes.
I'm in the process of rebuilding my 1.9DG 1985 WBX. It all started with a water jacket leak and one thing led to another and now the crankshaft is on the bench! Whats the best way of deciding on main and big end bearing sizes. The main bearings feel a bit loose on the crankshaft. Interestingly someone (apart from vw!) has been inside the crankcase before. The reason I can tell is because one of the bearing halves on number 2 main is missing! Other findings, very worn pitted camshaft and a disintegrated cam bearing.

[shirelets]

Seems like you may be another Cumbrian? I'm rebuilding my DG after head studs corroded and water leaked, but all the internals are in very good condition. So probably can't help you except I'm learning about gaskets, seals, etc on this complicated engine, which you maybe already know about. What you will find is parts prices are astronomical and if you tot them up are likely to come to more than a 'recon' unit. There are various threads on how much can be done to a recon for the price they are sold for - some e.g. Elite less than £1k. For parts, Nigel Howe at VW Heritage is superb and knows his stuff. If your engine has original bits in, all will have an original VW part number which will help on identifying journal sizes etc. Good luck and deep pockets!