Arias 8.3 With 3" Mains - Questions

We have a couple of older (cast) Arias 8.3 long blocks with the above mentioned 3" mains. We would like to ressurect these in a blown alky drag application. However, we're not too familiar with the 3" main deal. We were hoping to tap into the minds of the people here, for some history & advice.

Both long blocks are 11.2 deck, and 4" stroke, Bryant cranks (BBC snout, hemi rod, chev spacing, 3" mains, hemi flange), steel caps.

From what I gather, the 3" deal was popular, but then fell out of favour? Or am I wrong in this regard? Is the 3" deal still commonly used today? What are the ad/dis advantages of using the 3" main deal?

Since both of our long blocks already have good 3" cranks, and the blocks themselves are in good shape, I guess we're sort of locked into going down the 3" road. Downsizing to a conventional bearing would be a lot of work, or is there a good reason to consider doing this?

If we stick with the 3" deal, does anyone have any tips or advice on cleareances, oiling improvements, and mods to aid high RPM oiling & bearing life?

Lastly, what is the preferred source currently for 3" main bearings?

Thanks in advance for any advice or suggestions.

 

Are there any numbers on the back of the bearings?

 

3'' mains

We truck pull with arias 10L and arias 8.3L with 3" mains. We have no main bearing issues, other than if the crank is broke. The 3" mains was very hard to come by for a while. A guy by the name of Billy Biers had clevite make a bunch of these bearings for his personal use and to sell to other people. His phone number is War Wagon Motorsports 518-767-9909 ask for billy biers or wayne keefe. you can also buy the from Fowler engines 614-258-2924. Hope this helps

 

That does help a bunch. Thanks!.......

 

Hey buckeyehauler, check you PM's....