Crankshaft and Bearings Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Yukon XL, 2002 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: In order to prevent damage to the crankshaft position sensor reluctor wheel/ring care must be used when removing or installing this component.

Important: The crankshaft position sensor is designed to contact the reluctor wheel of the crankshaft. Wear may be noticeable on the end of the sensor.

Remove the crankshaft position sensor bolt.
Apply penetrating oil to the crankshaft position sensor-to-engine block mating surface. Allow the penetrating oil to soak for several minutes, to help loosen the O-ring from the engine block.
Twist the sensor to break the O-ring seals loose. When removing the sensor, pull the sensor straight out of the engine block at the same angle the sensor was installed.
Inspect both crankshaft position sensor O-rings for cuts, cracks, tears or damage. Replace the O-rings as needed.

Fig 1: Crankshaft position Sensor & Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: Crankshaft bearing caps are machined with the engine block for the proper clearances. Mark or identify each crankshaft bearing cap location and direction before removal. Crankshaft bearing caps must be installed in their original locations.
Remove the crankshaft bearing cap bolts and studs.

Fig 2: Crankshaft Bearing Cap Bolts & Nuts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the crankshaft bearing caps.
Remove the crankshaft lower bearings from the crankshaft bearing caps.

Fig 3: Crankshaft Bearing Caps & Lower Bearings
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: Care should be taken when removing the crankshaft so that the crankshaft position sensor reluctor ring is not damaged.
Remove the crankshaft.

Fig 4: Crankshaft
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the crankshaft upper bearings from the engine block.

Fig 5: Crankshaft Upper Bearings
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.