FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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Refinishing

DESCRIPTION

CAUTION: Failure to maintain the original fillet radius at the line where the journal meets the counterweight of the crankshaft can result in crankshaft damage.

Crankshaft grinding is necessary to straighten and restore journals to a round condition. Crankshaft grinding should be done only by experienced professionals. Be sure the crankshaft is polished and recleaned (especially the oil passages) after grinding it and before installing it in the engine.

If required, machine the journals to give the proper clearance with the next undersize bearing. If the journals will not clean up to maximum undersize bearing available, replace the crankshaft.

JOURNAL RADIUS
NOTE: Journal radius is undercut and should be refinished. Do not grind more than 5 mm (0.20 inch) off of journal or deep-fillet rolling, because strength increase will be compromised.

Always reproduce the same journal shoulder radius that existed originally. Too small of a radius will result in fatigue failure of the crankshaft. Too large of a radius will result in bearing failure due to radius ride of the bearing.

OIL HOLES AND FINISH
After refinishing the journals, chamfer the oil holes. Polish the journal with a No. 500 grit polishing cloth and engine oil (crocus cloth may also be used) to obtain a smooth finish. Remove all grinding dust from oil passages with compressed air.

MINOR IMPERFECTIONS
Dress minor imperfections such as scores, nicks or burrs with an oil stone. If the journals are severely marred or exceed the service limit, refinish them to size for the next undersize bearing.