Crankshaft & Main Bearings
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2001 Ford Pickup, 2001 Ford Expedition, 2001 Ford Econoline, 2000 Ford Pickup, and 2000 Ford Expedition. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
When checking bearing clearances using Plastigage, side bolts and side adjusting screws do not need to be installed.
- Measure main bearing clearances using Plastigage method. Main bearing caps are marked for location, with No. 1 at front and No. 5 at rear of engine. Arrow on main bearing cap must point toward front of engine. Lubricate bearing shells with assembly lube or heavy oil before installation.
- Install main bearing inserts in cylinder block. Lay crankshaft into cylinder block. Push crankshaft rearward. Roll thrust washer into cylinder block, ensure coating on bearing is facing crankshaft thrust surface.
- Install main bearing caps using NEW bolts, do not fully tighten. Using a pry bar push crankshaft forward to seat thrust washer. While holding crankshaft forward, evenly pry No. 5 main cap rearward (DO NOT COCK). Tighten main bearing cap bolts to specification in 2 steps using proper sequence. See Fig. Fig 1 or Fig 2 . See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Tighten side adjusting screws against cylinder block to specification in 2 steps using proper sequence. See Fig 1 or Fig 2 . Side adjusting screws have left-hand threads. Tighten side bolts.
CAUTION:
Ensure side adjusting screws on main bearing caps are screwed inward completely before installing main cap. See Fig. Figure or Figure
. Using a brass hammer, tap main bearing caps into position on cylinder block before tightening bolts to specification. This must be done to ensure proper torque reading. DO NOT reuse main bearing cap bolts. Side bolts and side adjusting screws may be reused.