King Bearings

The best King Bearings sets for a Subaru build are the ones matched to your crankshaft measurements: standard size for a crank in factory specification, oversized +.001in sets when clearances call for them, and undersized -.010in sets for a reground crank. This collection covers main and connecting rod bearings for Subaru EJ engines, plus sets for the Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ, and Toyota 86.

Engine bearings are precision parts, not styling parts. Main bearings support the crankshaft in the block, rod bearings sit between the rods and crank journals, and the oil clearance between bearing and journal keeps a pressurized oil film protecting the engine. That is why sizes matter: the listings split standard, oversized, and undersized sets, and coated options appear across main and rod sets. Measure the crank, confirm clearances with your builder or machine shop, and check your year and model before ordering. Builds usually plan bearings alongside connecting rods, crankshafts, and the wider oil system.

About the brands

King Bearings, listed here as King Engine Bearings, is the single focus of this collection, and its range is organized around how builders actually buy bearings. For Subaru EJ models, including the 2002-2014 WRX and 2004 and later STI applications named in the listings, there are standard crank main sets, standard connecting rod sets with a pMax Coated finish, oversized +.001in main and rod sets, and an undersized -.010in main set. Separate crankshaft main bearings for the EJ20, EJ22, and EJ25, including turbo engines, are listed in coated form, and standard main and rod sets also cover the 2013-2016 FR-S, 2013 and later BRZ, and Toyota 86.

ACL is the main comparison brand in the store for performance engine bearings, with its Race Series bearings collection sitting alongside King in most Subaru build plans. Builders commonly cross-shop the two on size availability, coating, and intended use, so compare both ranges for your exact journal measurements rather than choosing by name alone.

Clevite and Mahle round out the engine-internals picture. Clevite appears in bearing sets bundled with piston programs, while Mahle covers pistons and engine parts typically specified in the same build conversation.

For build planning, read our guide to Subaru engine modifications before finalizing sizes.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know whether I need standard, oversized, or undersized bearings?

It depends on your crankshaft journals and the oil clearance your builder is targeting. Standard fits an unmodified crank in specification, +.001in sets fine-tune clearance, and -.010in sets suit a reground crank. Measure first, then order.

What does pMax Coated mean on these listings?

Several King rod and main sets in this collection are listed as pMax Coated, which is the coating designation in the product titles. Choose a coated set when your builder specifies it for the build.

Do these bearings fit FA-engine cars?

This collection names EJ models and the FR-S, BRZ, and Toyota 86 applications in its listings. Check your exact engine, year, and model on the product page, and do not assume EJ and FA bearings interchange.

Should bearings be replaced during a rebuild?

Yes, builders normally fit fresh main and rod bearings whenever an engine is apart for a rebuild, since the old bearings have already worn to the previous clearances and surfaces.