Abstract: An apparatus operable for inserting an arcuate thrust metal insert into an arcuate gap defined by a surface of a crank arm of a crankshaft and an arcuate groove formed on an end face of a bearing portion of a cylinder block, when the crankshaft is positioned on the cylinder block such that a journal formed adjacent to the crank arm of the crankshaft is fitted on an arcuate concave bearing surface of the bearing portion. The apparatus includes a device for holding the insert and positioning the insert at a circumferential position of the journal opposite to the arcuate bearing surface of the bearing portion diametrically of the journal, such that the insert is substantially concentric with the arcuate groove.

Abstract: A heat resistant nickel base alloy which is excellent in not only hot and cold workability but also high temperature strength properties and which also possesses satisfactory oxidation resistance. The nickel base alloy consists essentially of 0.001-0.15 percent carbon, 0.0005-0.05 percent calcium, 20.0-126.0 percent chromium, 4.7-9.4 percent cobalt, 5.0-16.0 percent molybdenum, 0.5-4.0 percent tungsten, with the total of molybdenum plus tungsten being from 9.0 to 16.5 percent, and the balance nickel and inevitable impurities. The alloy may further contain one selected from the group consisting of (1) 0.3-1.5 percent aluminum and 0.1-1.0 percent titanium, (2) 0.001-0.30 percent at least one of yttrium and rare earth elements, and (3) 0.01-1.0 percent at least one of niobium, vanadium and tantalum, whereby the aforementioned characteristics are further enhanced.