Crankshaft Main Bearing

Note: Verify that the following stages are followed exactly. The crankshaft must be to specification.

Note: The bearing shells and journals must be free from engine oil and din.

Note: The measuring point should be near to the center.





1. Position on a length of Plastigage on the bearing journal.
^ Insert the associated bearing shells, without lubrication, into the cylinder block.
^ Insert the crankshaft, without lubrication, into the cylinder block.
^ Position a strip of Plastigage, equal to the width of the bearing, on the bearing journal.

Vehicles With 2.0L Engine

2. Note: Measure each bearing separately.

Carry out the measurement. One bearing cap at a time should be worked on; install the bearing cap of the bearing position to be measured and tighten it to the specified torque.

Note: Do not hit the bearing cap.

^ Remove the bearing cap.

Vehicles with 2.5L engine

3. Note: Measure all the hearings at the same time.

Carry out the measurement.
^ Install the lower crankcase with bearing shells following the tightening specification.

Note: Do not hit the lower crankcase.

^ Install the lower crankcase with bearing shells following the tightening specification.

All Vehicles





4. Read off the measurement.
^ Compare the length of plastigage with the Plastigage scale.
^ The value that is read off is the bearing clearance.
^ If the measurement is out of the specified range, change the bearing shells and repeat the measurement.