main cap tightening sequence?

George Jets said

Start in the middle alternate left and right out to the ends. Slightly rocking the crank after each main to make sure no tight spots as you go.

My particular approach is to bring them up to 30 ft lbs each, then bring them up to 60 ft lbs each, then to 85 ft lbs each to finish them off (small block).

Think of it as stretching the block as you are tightening them up. Want to tighten them up evenly as you go so you are not pulling things out of shape.

Want to maintain an even centerline on all crankshaft main journals.

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My method is very similar. I start with taking up all the slack and just snug the bolts down. Starting with #3 and alternating toward both ends, I tighten the bolts to 20lbs first. Then using a brass hammer, I tap on all the caps in all directions to make sure everything is seated properly and nothing is binding. I then tighten them (using the same sequence) to half the final specs, checking to make sure nothing is binding. Then on to the final torque specs. I then remove each cap (one at a time between re-torquing that bolt and then removing the next) to plastigage the bearing to make sure the clearance is correct.