Difference Between Sitting Metal and Road Metal

Some people may still be unfamiliar with the terms sitting metal or running metal. Both components are found in car engines but are known by different terms. 

Their function is just as important as other components for the engine to run optimally. If you are curious about the definitions of sitting metal and running metal and their differences, read the review here!

What are Sitting Metal and Running Metal?

It is true that some people have not heard much about the terms sitting metal and running metal. In fact, these two components play an important role in the performance of four-wheeled vehicle engines. 

Basically, the shape of these components is a type of bearing specifically designed for high speed and high pressure.

The term commonly used to refer to these components is journal bearing. Its operation uses a fluid layer that separates the bearing and the shaft. 

This fluid is supplied from holes in the bearing, which then fills the gap between the sitting metal. This way, the rotation process will not come into contact with the journal bearing. 

So what are the definitions of sitting metal and running metal and their differences? Before that, it should be noted that sitting metal and running metal are part of journal bearing.

If sitting metal or main bearing is located in the engine block as the main support, running metal or what is called round bearing is located in the piston rod or connecting rod. 

Read also: 5 Components of Car Differential and Their Functions

Function of Round Bearing and Main Bearing

Sitting metal is one type of bearing specifically designed to handle high speed and pressure in the engine. 

In this bearing, there are two types of journal bearing known as main bearing or sitting metal and round bearing or running metal. Both have a crucial function in the operation of the car engine. 

The definitions of sitting metal and running metal and their differences can be understood from their locations. Sitting metal serves as one of the main supports when the crankshaft is rotating. 

It is located in the engine block and serves as a bearing when the crank shaft rotates. Thus, this part will function in the car engine when it is driven at high speeds. 

Meanwhile, round bearing or running metal is the bearing of the piston rod that moves up and down. Its location is different from sitting metal, as running metal is located in the piston rod or connecting rod. 

In this case, round bearing will work well if the car is in good condition, and vice versa. 

The function of running metal is actually not much different from sitting metal because both serve as bearings. However, the difference is that running metal will also coat the piston rod. 

It is called running metal because when it works inside the engine, this metal moves up and down. Thus, the four-wheeled vehicle can run optimally and without interruption. 

Factors Affecting the Condition of Sitting Metal and Running Metal

After understanding the definitions of sitting metal and running metal and their differences, you need to know how to maintain them. Poor oil quality and not being replaced regularly will cause the metal components to make noise and feel heavy. Additionally, this will also cause disruptions in other vital engine components. 

If both experience problems, the car engine will not operate optimally. Even the four-wheeled vehicle you own will become damaged more quickly. Therefore, regular maintenance is necessary for it to function normally.

Read also: 4 Signs of a Damaged Car AC Compressor Bearing That Must Be Replaced Immediately