BE-Clevite Connecting Rod Bearing Set - E46 M3, MZ3, Z4M, S54

These bearings are manufactured using common rod bearing materials instead of the harder metals of the latest factory BMW bearing shells.

A popular alternative to new factory bearings are these bearings made of lead-copper by the OEM supplier to BMW, Clevite. These bearings use the industry-standard materials so that bearing wear is easily calculated in oil analysis and the softer material is less likely to damage the crankshaft. The sizes and clearances have been carefully chosen, after consulting with engine-building experts, to work with the factory BMW 10W60 engine oil. Oil flow, coating, and retention of the BE bearings is improved over the factory bearings, thanks to a more optimized eccentric curvature and shape.

These bearings are custom made by Clevite specifically for M3 enthusiast owners who demand an alternative to the factory BMW bearings. They are not designed to last longer than any OE BMW bearing, just optimized based on BE's research. There is no official replacement interval from BMW but we feel comfortable recommending a preventative replacement at 80,000 miles

These bearings are sized for a standard crankshaft that has not been machined. They are a direct alternative replacement for BMW part numbers 11247835440 and 11247835439.

Note: for cars produced after 2/2003 cannot re-use the original connecting rod bolts. This is a M10-sized rod bolt and each must be replaced. Factory BMW bolts or stronger ARP bolts are available separately. Cars produced before 2/2003 use an M11 rod bolt that may be re-used. An ARP M11 bolt is also available if you want fresh bolts.

Price is for the set of 12 bearings for the inline-6.

Engine Oil Note: these bearings have been specifically designed for use with BMW 10W60 oil. While we strongly recommend Red Line we have not evaluated these bearings with Red Line oil so our best recommendation is the factory 10W60. Correct oil operating temperature is 220°F - you should properly warm your engine before subjecting it to higher throttle angles and RPM. For more info on engine oil in general, check out our Oil Tech Page by clicking here.