[FMG_V6_btb]

If you decide to use an integral bottom frame with the bearing caps included, you will need to realign (mechanize) the entire bearings line, and that could be critical if you want to maintain the original bearings and crank.

Closing the bottom like race engines will add stiffness, but will make the part more difficult to manufacture, and the necessity of three external scavenge pumps...

If you look to the design, the side of the bearing caps are locked, so the triangle shape is not needed, also note that it is necessary to have some "windows" between pair of cylinders to allow the internal air in the crankcase to circulate (pumping effect of the lower part of the pistons), so the triangular space is needed.

I don’t recommend welding or cutting the original bearing caps, which could deform or impair those critical parts.

Longer bolts are needed, and round pegs could be inserted in the main bearing bolt holes to add some more stiffness.

Paco.