Mercedes Sprinter Connecting Rod Bearing Set – Kolbenschmidt | NCV3 3.0L OM642 | #6420300260 (2007–2022)

Worn connecting rod bearings on a Sprinter OM642 allow the rod journals to move beyond their designed clearances — producing a sharp, rhythmic knock that is distinct from main bearing knock, accelerates crankshaft journal wear, and signals bottom-end failure if the engine is not shut down and rebuilt immediately. This is the Kolbenschmidt connecting rod bearing set in standard size for NCV3 and VS30 Sprinters equipped with the 3.0L OM642 V6 diesel engine, a complete set of upper and lower shells for all six rod journals.

What This Part Does

The connecting rod bearings sit between the crankshaft rod journals and the connecting rod big ends, providing the precision low-friction interface that allows the rods to convert the crankshaft's rotational motion into linear piston movement. The OM642 V6 has six connecting rods — each requiring an upper shell in the rod cap and a lower shell in the rod body. Oil is fed to the rod journals through drillings in the crankshaft from the main oil gallery, creating the hydrodynamic film that separates the rod from the journal under the full firing load of each cylinder. When bearing clearances increase from wear, sludge accumulation, or oil starvation, the film breaks down and metal contact begins.

Common Symptoms of Worn Rod Bearings

• Sharp, rhythmic knocking that is faster and higher-pitched than main bearing knock
• Knock that is loudest under load and at mid-RPM
• Oil pressure that drops abnormally with the engine warm
• Metallic debris in the engine oil or oil filter
• Rod knock confirmed by isolating cylinders during a running test

When to Use

Use when rod bearing wear is confirmed and crankshaft rod journal measurements show dimensions within standard factory specification. Always measure journal diameter and verify rod bearing clearances with plastigauge before final assembly.

NCV3 & VS30 OM642 Specific — Engine Verification Required

This rod bearing set is for NCV3 and VS30 Sprinters equipped with the 3.0L OM642 V6 diesel engine. Always verify your engine code before ordering.

Fitment

• 2007–2018 Mercedes-Benz / Dodge / Freightliner Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (NCV3)
• 2019–2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (VS30)

✔ Standard size — for rod journals measuring within factory specification
✔ Complete set — includes upper and lower shells for all 6 rod journals
✔ Always replace main and rod bearings together during a bottom-end rebuild

Part Numbers

• Mercedes OEM: 6420300260 / A6420300260 / 642-030-02-60
• Manufacturer: Kolbenschmidt — 77827200
• SKU: 6420300260