King CR4604SM SM-Series Rod Bearing Set for Ford 2.3L Duratec Mazda L3-VDT

Vehicle Fitment

• 2007-2013 Mazdaspeed 3 (BK/BL Platform, 2.3L L3-VDT MZR DISI Turbo, FWD)
• 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed 6 (GG Platform, 2.3L L3-VDT MZR DISI Turbo, AWD)
• 2007-2012 Mazda CX-7 (ER Platform, 2.3L L3-VDT MZR DISI Turbo, AWD)
• 2004-2006 Ford Duratec 2.3L (Non-EcoBoost applications)

Fitment Notes

• Fits the Mazda L3-VDT (MZR DISI Turbo) 2.3L engine only - does not fit naturally aspirated L3-VE 2.3L variants
• Does not fit Ford 2.0L or 2.3L EcoBoost engines (different journal dimensions - see King CR4695SM for EcoBoost applications)
• Available in STD, 0.25mm, and 0.50mm undersizes - CR4604SM denotes standard (STD) size
• Verify crankshaft journal diameter before ordering; measure and confirm undersize requirement prior to installation

Features

• SM-Series bi-metal construction with steel backing and aluminum alloy bearing surface - King's strongest aluminum-based material
• Alloy strengthened with Manganese and Chromium (Mn/Cr) additions for superior load capacity and wear resistance
• Lead-free formulation - a direct OE replacement with improved material properties over factory bearings
• Bull's Eye Tolerance™ precision machining technology ensures minimal wall thickness variation shell-to-shell
• Designed for high-load, turbocharged applications where standard tri-metal bearings may not provide adequate protection

Specifications

• Application: Connecting Rod (Big End) Bearings
• Engine: Ford 2.3L Duratec / Mazda L3-VDT MZR DISI Turbo
• Material: Bi-metal - Steel-backed with Mn/Cr-strengthened aluminum alloy
• Size: Standard (STD) - 0.00mm undersize
• Position: All 4 connecting rod journals
• OE Reference: L3Y2-11-SF0A
• Quantity: 4 pairs (8 individual shells)

Included Components

• 8x Connecting rod bearing shells (4 pairs / upper and lower per journal)

Product Description

The King CR4604SM SM-Series connecting rod bearing set is engineered specifically for the Ford 2.3L Duratec and Mazda L3-VDT MZR DISI Turbo engines found in the Mazdaspeed 3, Mazdaspeed 6, and CX-7. The SM-Series uses a bi-metal design - a precision steel backing bonded with King's strongest aluminum alloy, enhanced with Manganese and Chromium additives - making it the ideal lead-free OE replacement for high-load turbocharged applications where durability and oil film retention are critical.

Each set includes 4 pairs of shells machined to King's Bull's Eye Tolerance™ standard, ensuring consistent wall thickness and proper crush fit across all four rod journals. This bearing set is sold in standard (STD) size and is intended for engines with unmachined or freshly within-spec crankshaft journals. For worn journals requiring regrinding, the CR4604SM is also available in 0.25mm and 0.50mm undersizes. Ideal for engine rebuilds, preventative maintenance on high-mileage turbocharged engines, or performance builds requiring reliable OE-grade bearings.