Check Crankshaft Bearing Clearance (With Plastigage)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Plastigage On Bearing Journal

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

Crankshaft removed.
Do not rotate the crankshaft.

Lay on plastigage.
Lay out plastigage (flexible plastic thread) around the entire width of the bearing journal (1).

CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution .

NOTE:

Note the correct tightening sequence.
The bolts can be reused for checking the crankshaft bearing play.

Install the crankshaft bearing cap. Tighten the 2 crankshaft bearing cap bolts in 3 passes. Use the EN-45059: sensor kit :
1. First pass to 50 N.m (37 lb ft)
2. Second pass to 45°
3. Third pass to 15°
Remove the 2 crankshaft bearing cap bolts.

Fig 2: Measuring Crankshaft Bearing Play Using Measuring Scale

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: When reading the value, do not confuse millimeters and inches on the measuring scale (1).

Measure the crankshaft bearing play.
1. Compare the width of the flattened plastic thread (arrow) to the measuring scale.
2. Permissible crankshaft bearing play: 0.005-0.059 mm (0.0002-0.0023 in).