Replacing the crankshaft in MS461

[MichMich]

Hi Folks,

I recently bought an used engine off ebay for building another MS461.
Piston and cylinder were heavily scored, but their replacement was intended anyway (had an OEM kit waiting).
Upon disassembly, I discovered that the crankshaft is shot too (the captive bearing is missing chunks), so I ordered an interim one until I can find am OEM crank at a more decent price (costs around 400 Euros here), either good used of new.

Question is, since the crank I'm about to install is an interim to get the saw running ASAP, do I have to replace the bearings, or can I use them until I get the OEM crank?

Cheers

 

[huskihl]

I’d run your existing bearings if they’re good until you find the better crank. I believe it’s the same crank as an 046/460 if that helps your search

 

[MichMich]

Thanks! Just found an auction for an OEM 046/460/461 one, will see. Bearings are clean and crank did rotate freely when installed, so I bet bearings are good to go

 

[MichMich]

Well, went another way. Decided to rebuild the saw with new cases (it just won't have a serial number on it).
Found an auction for an used OEM crankshaft on which I'm currently the highest bidder, so y 1yr old full OEM will be put to rest while this one will work

 

[MichMich]

Ok, I won the auction. US$74 for the crankshaft.
This is to be a near brand new build. Only used parts are:
Near new flywheel
Ignition module (DOM unknown)
Crankshaft (DOM unknown)

I initially planned to get a new crankshaft for this saw to act as a backup for my primary 461.

What I also could do it build this saw with the used crank, and get a new crank later for either saw, to anticipate a shortage of OEM parts in 10-15 years

What would be your advice guys?