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Tips

crank end play

69tr

Jedi Trainee
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I know that I have seen this but I cannot find it in the archives. (that doesn't meant it isn't there, I just can't find it)

What is the acceptable crank end play and where is the best place to check it? I might be dropping the oil pan to try to find the missing split pin from the rocker shaft. If so, would that be the best place to check it?

Thanks for any help, Pete
 
"Crankshaft end float" or Thrust Washers" will probabaly get you a bunch of threads on the subject. I've done it a few times and if you have the sump off, you can check it simplest of all, using a feeler gauge.
There's 2 sets of specs, one in Bentley and one in Haynes. Since I have the Haynes handy, I can give you those: .004-.008. Thickness of a standard TW is .092
 
The factory "Owners Workshop Manual" says .006" - .008" (page 134). Also shows checking the end play with a dial indicator, either against the front pulley (engine assembled) or the end of the crank (pan off). I don't know why that is, unless perhaps they were concerned that things might not be perfectly square (meaning you might get a false reading with a feeler gauge).

FWIW, I've found that using a magnetic drain plug is a good way to find chunks in the pan. I like the hex socket plugs, which are readily available from places like MMC.
https://www.mcmaster.com/#magnetic-pipe-fitting-plugs/=aiqycb
 
Whichever specs you use don't think less is better if you need to replace a TW. Less than .004 doesn't leave much room for oil.
 
its a lot easier to check with the sump off and a magnetic base dial gauge but it you have the sump off why not change them out, usually standard shims will bring it back to factory specs, then you can replace the pan gasket and clean the gunk out if there is any in there, and if you really want to get crazy get some plastic gauge and check a few main bearing clearances



Hondo
 
Thanks guys. If I can get enough heat in my garage I might pull the oil pan and work on that today.
 
I removed the sump and still no split pin.

I did plastigauge a couple of rod bearings.(#3 & #4 because they were handy.
They both measured .002. Is there any need to check the rest of them?

I don't have a dial gauge so I am going to check the end play with a feeler gauge tomorrow, hopefully.
If I come up with a dial gauge before I am ready to put the sump back on I will check it again.
 
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