OE Quality
60-Day Returns

Clevite CB-780A-.50MM(4) Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Set
Clevite Connecting Rod Bearing Set for Volkswagen
Clevite CB-780A-.50MM(4) is an OE replacement engine connecting rod bearing set for Volkswagen air-cooled applications. It uses a bi-metal aluminum design with 100% lead-free aluminum silicon and a .50 mm undersize specification for engines that require matched journal clearance.
Key Features
- OE Replacement bearing grade for factory-style service fitment
- Bi-metal aluminum construction with lead-free aluminum silicon
- 60% more silicon than comparable competitive replacements for improved journal surface conditioning
- Greater seizure resistance and wear resistance for demanding engine use
- Size: 0.50 mm undersize
- Series A bearing design
- Meets or exceeds original equipment manufacturer specifications
Detailed Description
Built for Volkswagen Beetle and Volkswagen Vanagon engine rebuilds, Clevite CB-780A-.50MM(4) is engineered for applications that call for an undersize connecting rod bearing with OE-style dimensions and performance. The aluminum silicon bearing material is selected to support journal conditioning while helping maintain durability under load. For builders searching for a Volkswagen Beetle connecting rod bearing set or a Volkswagen Vanagon .50 mm undersize rod bearing, this part number provides a direct OE replacement solution.
The CB-780A-.50MM(4) part number is associated with Clevite’s A Series aluminum bearing line and is intended for engines that need precise bearing clearance after crankshaft machining. If you are sourcing Clevite CB-780A-.50MM(4) for a Volkswagen Beetle or Volkswagen Vanagon rebuild, the fitment and material specification make it a practical choice for restoration and repair work.
What It Helps Address
- Excessive rod bearing clearance after crankshaft undersizing
- Journal wear from aged or previously machined engine components
- Loss of oil film stability at the connecting rod journals
- Seizure risk caused by worn bearing surfaces
- Need for an OE-style replacement during engine overhaul
Installation Notes and Tips
- Verify crankshaft journal size before installation; this bearing is .50 mm undersize.
- Measure oil clearance during assembly and confirm bearing-to-journal fit.
- Inspect connecting rods, crankshaft journals, and oil passages before final assembly.
- Use proper engine assembly lubricant and follow factory torque procedures.
- Confirm application details for 1954-1979 Volkswagen Beetle and 1983-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon before ordering.
Quality Assurance
Clevite states that this bearing meets or exceeds original equipment manufacturer specifications. The bi-metal aluminum construction and lead-free aluminum silicon material are engineered for durability, wear resistance, and consistent service in rebuild applications.
| Brand | Clevite |
|---|---|
| Part Number | CB-780A-.50MM(4) |
| Bearing Item Grade | Oe replacement |
| Bearing Series | A |
| Meets or Exceeds Original Equipment Manufacture Specifications | Yes |
| Size | 0.50 mm undersize |
This part fits 35 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Liters | Cylinders | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1990 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1989 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1988 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1987 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1986 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 2.1L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1985 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 1.9L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1984 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 1.9L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1983 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | 1.9L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1979 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1978 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1977 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1976 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1975 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1974 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1973 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1972 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1971 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1970 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.6L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1969 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.5L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1968 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.5L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1967 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.5L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1966 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1965 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1964 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1963 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1962 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1961 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1960 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1959 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1958 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1957 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1956 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1955 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
| 1954 | Volkswagen | Beetle | 1.2L | H4 | N/A | OE Replacement; A Series (Aluminum); .50mm Undersize |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.