I am putting my main bearings on and after using plastigauge the clearance is .003 the Manual only the gives the minimum of .0015. Is .003 ok?

sounds ok, what bearings are you using ,also 1s plastigage1to 3.if crank is just ground i would be happy with 3,no more. would also check with maker as to there recommended clearance,3 is better than 1. used crank will always be on the high side unless grinder took a touch to much off

I am using a used crank the plastigauge I am using is 002,003,0015 some of them are .003 a couple are .002 but .0015 is the minimum clearance they are new federal mongrel mains. I have not had the main fronded on just cleaned and polished.

just remember plastigage is not completely accurate,just a guide. how consistent was the measurements on the crank(with aa known micrometer.still think you will be ok