Crankshaft: Testing and Inspection

Crankshaft End-float, Check and Adjust

Remove components as required for access and proceed as follows.

- Remove the oil pan.




- Remove the oil pump pick-up pipes (3 Fig. 1).

- Remove the crankshaft windage trays (6 Fig. 1).

- Mount a suitable dial gauge and position the stylus on the crankshaft front pulley.




- Zero the gauge, and with the use of a suitable lever, measure the crankshaft end-float (Fig. 2). For the correct end-float, see Service Data under Engine, Specifications.

- If the end-float exceeds the tolerances, remove the center main bearing cap, and renew the thrust washers.




Note: When refitting the thrust washers, ensure that the bearing face (grooved) (1 Fig. 3) and not the steel side contacts the crankshaft.

- Recheck the end-float and if satisfactory, clean the main bearing cap and bearing, lubricate with clean engine oil and fit the cap assembly to the cylinder block.

- Fit and torque tighten the securing bolts.

CAUTION: The main bearing securing belts MUST be renewed during assembly and torque tightened as described under Engine, Service and Repair, Service Procedures, SPS Joint Control System.

Note: Ensure that the bearing cap is the correct way round with the cap numbers corresponding to the numbers stamped on the oil pan mounting face.

- Rotate the crankshaft to ensure that it is not being `pinched' and will rotate freely.

- Remove the dial gauge and torque tighten the main bearing cap. Refit the windage trays to the cylinder block and secure with the bolts.

- Refit the oil pump pick-up pipes.

- Refit the oil pan.

- Refit the oil filler / drain back tube.

Replace the components removed for access.