Check Crankshaft Bearing Clearance (with Plastigage)

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Clean all sealant surfaces from lower crankcase and engine block.
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NOTE:
Ensure that guide lugs (arrows) are properly seated. Note position of thrust bearing (1) at middle crankshaft bearing.

If the old crankshaft bearing shells was reused, set it in as removed.

Install the 5 upper crankshaft bearings to the engine block.
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NOTE:
Do not rotate the crankshaft.

Lay on 5 times plastigage (flexible plastic thread) axially over the entire width of the crankshaft bearing journal (1).
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NOTE:
Ensure that guide lugs are properly seated. If the old crankshaft bearings are reused, set it in as removed.

Install the 5 lower crankshaft bearings (1) into the crankcase (2).
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Install the crankshaft to the engine block (4).
Install the lower crankcase (1).
Loosely install 10 main bearing bolts M10 (2).
Loosely install the 11 lower crankcase bolts M8 (3).
Fig 1: Identifying Main Bearing And Lower Crankcase Bolts With Tightening Sequence
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CAUTION:
Refer to Fastener Caution .

CAUTION:
Refer to Torque-to-Yield Fastener Caution .

Tighten the 10 main bearing bolts.
1. Tighten the bolts (1-10) a first pass in sequence shown to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
2. Tighten the bolts (1-10) a second pass in sequence shown an additional to 90 degrees, using the EN-45059 meter.
3. Tighten the bolts (1-10) a final pass in sequence shown an additional to 90 degrees, using the EN-45059 meter.
Tighten the 11 lower crankcase bolts (11-21) in sequence shown to 34 N.m (25 lb ft).
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Remove the 11 lower crankcase bolts M8 (3).
Remove 10 main bearing bolts M10 (2).
Remove the lower crankcase (1) from the engine block (4).
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NOTE:
When reading the value, do not confuse millimeters and inches on the measuring scale.

Measure the crankshaft bearing play.
- Compare the width of the flattened plastic thread (1) to the measuring scale (2).
- For the permissible crankshaft bearing clearance, refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications .