Thrust Bearing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue and 2002 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Thrust bearing is part of main bearing No. 3. Using a rubber mallet, tap crankshaft forward, then rearward to seat thrust bearing. With main bearing cap bolts tight, use dial indicator to check crankshaft end play. If end play exceeds specification, replace main bearing No. 2 and/or crankshaft. See CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.