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Home >> BMW >> 2013 >> X6 50i >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> Engine Control Systems >> Engine - Repair (N63) >> Crankshaft With Bearing >> 11 21 531 Replacing all main crankshaft bearing shells (N63) >> Checking main bearing clearance

Checking main bearing clearance

To check crankshaft bearing clearance, use the existing main bearing screws.

IMPORTANT: Danger of cracking! 

No oil is permitted in the blind bores.

Fig 1: Checking Main Bearing Clearance
G04793251Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Do not twist crankshaft.

Place special tool 00 2 590 (Plastigage model PG 1) on oil-free crankshaft (see arrow).

Tighten down all collar bolts (M11) of main bearing caps in sequence 1 to 5 to jointing torque.

Tightening torque 11 11 1AZ, see 11 11 ENGINE BLOCK

Fig 2: Crankshaft Bolts (M11) Tightening/Loosening Sequence
G06178456Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tighten down all collar bolts (M11) of main bearing caps with special tool 00 9 120 to angle of rotation.

Fig 3: Tightening Collar Bolt
G06178464Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove main bearing cap.

Read off main bearing play at width of flattened plastic thread with assistance of measurement scale.

Main bearing play  .

Fig 4: Checking Main Bearing Play
G04739747Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
NOTE: Always replace bolts in main bearing caps with new bolts.

Do not wash off bolt coating.

IMPORTANT: Danger of cracking! 

No oil is permitted in the blind bores.

Install crankshaft  .

Carefully strike back and front of crankshaft with a plastic hammer to center thrust bearing (do not damage crankshaft).

Secure special tool 11 6 252 with magnetic foot on crankcase.

Position special tool 11 6 251.

Tightening specifications for main bearing:

Check side clearance (axial play  ).

Check guide bearing shell, crankshaft and crankcase if necessary.

Fig 5: Checking Crankshaft End Play
G06178471Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Assemble engine.