Measuring Crankshaft Bearing Clearance
- NOTE:
- Crankshaft bearing clearances are critical. Excessive crankshaft bearing clearance may affect crankshaft position (CKP) sensor signals and/or on-board diagnostic (OBD) II system performance.
- Crankshaft bearing caps must be installed to the proper location and direction.
- When installing the crankshaft bearings, align the locating tabs on the bearings with the locating notches in the engine block journal bore and the bearing cap.
- Always install crankshaft bearings with their machined partner. Do not file bearings or mix bearing halves.
- In order to prevent engine block oil leakage, install NEW crankshaft bearing cap side bolts.
Install the crankshaft bearings (2 and 5) to the engine block and bearing caps (1). The thrust bearings (6) are to be installed into center journal.
- Lubricate the bearing surfaces and crankshaft journals with clean engine oil.
- Install the crankshaft (4).
Ensure the bearing caps are installed correctly.
The bearing caps must be installed in the proper location and direction. The arrows on the bearing caps must point toward front of engine.
- CAUTION:
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
NOTE:The inner bearing cap bolts are longer than the outer bearing cap bolts.
Install NEW inner bearing cap bolts (1) and NEW outer bearing cap bolts (2) and hand tighten.
- Using a plastic-face hammer, tap the bearing caps into place.
- Install the NEW bearing cap side bolts (3) and hand tighten.
- Tighten the inner bearing cap bolts in sequence. Fastener Specifications
- Using a plastic-face hammer, tap the crankshaft rearward, then forward in order to align the thrust bearings.
- Tighten the outer bearing cap bolts in sequence. Fastener Specifications
- Tighten the main bearing cap side bolts in sequence. Fastener Specifications
Install the crankshaft position sensor (2). Rotate the sensor until the locating hole in the bracket aligns with the bolt hole in the block.
- Install the sensor bolt (1) and tighten. Fastener Specifications
Measure the crankshaft end play.
- Thrust the crankshaft forward or rearward.
- Mount a dial indicator gauge with the tip engaging the front face of the nose of the crankshaft.
- Thrust the crankshaft in the opposite direction as step 12.1. Record the measurement from the dial indicator.
Compare the measurement to the required end play specification. Engine Mechanical Specifications (L84) , or Engine Mechanical Specifications (L87)
- If the bearing clearance is not within specifications, inspect the thrust surfaces for nicks, gouges or raised metal. Minor imperfections may be removed with a fine stone.
To maintain proper crankshaft end play, use extreme care during crankshaft installation. Avoid scoring or damaging the thrust bearing.
To properly align the crankshaft thrust bearings, the final thrust of the crankshaft MUST be in the forward direction.