Crankshaft removal only becomes possible after extracting the engine out of the vehicle, assuming that the flywheel, crankshaft pulley, timing belt, oil pan, oil pump body, oil filter and
Piston/connecting rod assemblies have been removed. Measuring Before the endplay of the crankshaft is measured with a dial indicator positioned on the crankshaft. Crankshaft The crankshaft must be pried to the rear, then to the front, and the indicator should be proven to be between 0.003 and 0.010 inch (0.076 to 0.254 mm) zero. In the absence of a dial indicator, it is possible to use feeler gauges to measure clearance. Slacken the main bearing cap assembly bolts slowly, and by tapping the cap off, and by lifting the crankshaft out of the engine (preferably with help) gradually. To install, make sure that the engine block and the crankshaft are clean and checked. Place the block in an upside-down position and strip off the support beams and cap and lubricate the bearing surfaces. Install new upper main bearing inserts in the saddles, making sure that the oil holes are lined up, and install lower inserts in the caps. Wipe the crankshaft journals and wipe the oil holes. Install the crankshaft then verify the main bearing oil clearance with Plastigage; make sure it is not outside specification limits. In case of need, change bearing inserts to the right size. Once the Plastigage has been removed, grease or assembly lube on the bearing surfaces and thrust faces then re-mount the crankshaft and bearing cap assembly, tightening the bolts to the proper order. Test crankshaft endplay again and make sure that the rotation is smooth and with minimum torque. Lastly, replace rear main oil seal.