Can you replace rod bearings with engine still in car?

Back when I had my 68 Dodge Coronett with a 383 in it I spun a bearing and since I was in the process of re-building a 440 I decided to replace this bearing with the engine in the car in hopes that it would last me thru the summer or until I finished up the 440. The journal on the crank for this rod felt a little ruff to me so I took a fine piece emory and cleaned up this journal, installed the new bearings and this lasted me until I had finished up my 440 and when I pulled the motor it was still purring like a kitten, so yes it can be done.