[AussieinNC]

There are a huge number of variables in building an engine,,,,and everyone has their own way of doing things...

1/ Use a outside micrometer to determine the journal size of the crank journals. Write down the figure

Also check for journals out of round.(Take two sets of measurements on each journal 90 degrees apart)

2/ Torque the rod bolts to spec and using an internal micrometer, measure the journal ID and check for out of round there as well. Write down the figure.

3/ Subtract the crank journal dimension from the rod bearing measurement and you will have your bearing clearance.

This is the only way to determine excess bearing clearances.

4/ You can use plastigauge but it not as accurate...

The rod bearings look pounded out, too much clearance...

The thrust faces of the rear main look normal...the surface of the main looks like the mains need to be closed and honed...most small blocks need this as a part of a full build....

Is this coupled to a manual or auto trans?

Pop the bearing shells out of the rod and check the imprinted size on the back....

Sometimes you can use a plus 0.001 bearing shell to close up excess clearances.

Are there any 0.001 shells in the build?

What oil pump was in the engine?
Is the bypass valve in the pump stuck in bypass mode?