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Well, I've been informed that I have a spun main bearing. I encountered a knocking sound a while back that I was hoping would be the fuel pump or possibly a loose timing chain, but upon inspection of the crank (which is grooved), it appears to be a main bearing.
So, for the past month or two, the car has sat under a cover in my driveway. I've purchased a crate motor that I will be installing shortly, so that I can take the original out and rebuild it properly.
My question is: how bad would it be to drive the car to the shop where I'll be replacing the engine? I've heard the horror stories of the potential damage spun bearings can create, but I'd rather not pay to haul it if I don't have to. The engine still starts and idles fine, with the exception of a knock developing around 1500 rpm.
Here's a picture of the crank, taken by my mechanic.
If you were tossing the engine I'd say drive it but since a rebuild is planned have it towed. Think of it this way, for the tow cost you could easily create more damage that would far exceed that cost by driving it.
Since you are rebuilding the original engine, I wouldn't drive it. You said you have a mechanic doing this so putting the engine together again to make it driveable to the rebuild shop would cost just as much or more than the tow.
If you're concerned about the cost of towing, check into your insurance. I know Nationwide has free towing (not sure of distance) and I have used it many times.
I had a similar situation and my collector car insurance paid for flat bed towing from my house to the garage. If your car breaks in your driveway or on the freeway should make no difference. Anyhoo... something to consider.
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