1999 ford escort zx2 bearings change

i have a 1999 ford escort zx2 ztec. can i change rod and main bearings with engine in car? i have a slight knock at idle. i think i can get by with just changing bearings right now before it gets bad. before i dropped oil pan just wanted to know if this is possible. thanks

Either way, what happens when you see that journal all scored an lined ready to crack at a stress riser?

You can look and change them but its a gamble. Also the crankshaft may need polished or turned. It all depends on what you find.

My Escort has always had a slight knock at idle and I've had it for over 150,000 miles. Could a bad lifter do this? Have you tried heavier weight oil? Just seems a little early for the engine bearings to be failing.:2cents:

i changed the oil and filt. used 5w 20 synthetic oil per manufacture requirements. knock was heard at idle. drained one quart out and put in one quart of lucas oil additive. can barely hear knock now.that's how i got to question of just replacing bearings. before damage increased, or just let it go and see what happens.

Talk to your local machine shop they also make slightly oversize bearings. You would have to mic the crankshaft first.

thanks for the help to everyone that replied. i changed oil and went with 10w 30. noise a little more noiticable now. i can hear it with slight acceleration also. i guess i will run it untill it gets worst.

Try Penzoil..(if you didn't). Same wt.
I had some engine noise..no big deal..almost normal I guess..considerring the mileage.
I happened across some Penzoil years ago (never used it before) and ONLY bought it cause it was dirt cheap on sale Wally..

lol..put it in (changed it).
Noise(s) went away and stayed away for years and years as I continued to use Penzoil.

I still use Penzoil and about 1/2 a bottle of GM EOS every other change