Crankshaft Main Bearing Journal-to-Bearing Clearance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Ford Pickup, 2012 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2012 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2012 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Crankshaft main bearing journals must be within specifications before checking the crankshaft mail bearing journal clearance.

Remove the crankshaft main bearing cap and crankshaft main bearing.
Position a piece of plastigage across the face of the crankshaft main bearing surface.

Fig 1: Locating Piece Of Plastigage Across Face Of Crankshaft Main Bearing Surface
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not turn the crankshaft during this step.

Install and tighten to specifications, then remove the crankshaft main bearing cap.
- For additional information, refer to Engine for service information.
Measure the plastigage to get the crankshaft main bearing journal clearance. The plastigage should be smooth and flat. A changing width indicated a tapered or damaged crankshaft or crankshaft bearing.

Fig 2: Measuring Plastigage To Get Crankshaft Main Bearing Journal Clearance

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.