Porsche Repair: 1969 912, main bearings, german accents

Question
I bought a used crank w/flywheel for my 1969 912, as the existing one was damaged at the flywheel connection, causing it to leak oil.  I'm getting pricing for standard main bearings around $350.00!  The motor has only about 2500 miles on it.  Can I reuse the existing main bearings?  Or do you know were to get reasonable one?

Thanks, Deron

Answer
Deron,

I had a very long answer a couple minutes ago comparing and contrasting  two alternatives.  Then the power went out.  Ugh!!

So here's the abbreviated version.  If it were me...I'd use the 2500 mile bearings.  They've certainly got a "set" on themselves by now, meaning they've been crushed into position by the caps, and the crank has begun wearing off the high spots.  But then there's the $350. replacement cost.  Are those 2500 mile bearings TRASH?  I don't think so.  

I'd think about it like putting a new brake rotor on after you've run new pads 2500 miles.  I wouldn't change to new pads.  Now Helmut and Hans, the two German mechanics trained at the factory and who speak with those real German accents...they'd throw away the old pads.  They'd throw away the old bearings.

I'd know that the pads will wear differently with the new/different rotor and will likely last a little less long, but they'd be fine.  I think the 2500 mile bearings will be fine too.

I'd be sure to turn the crank over and over by hand after its torqued down...just to see if I could feel anything...and I'd be extra, extra careful with the break-in period.

So...you can do what I'd do or you can do what Helmut and Hans would do...your choice.  

Dave

P.S.  If you decide you want to buy new ones, please send me the old TRASHED ones...I'll make sure they are disposed of properly!.