Which instrument is used to check the end play of crank shaft?
End play is measured at the crankshaft pulley when the engine is installed in vehicle, and at the flywheel when the engine is removed. In both cases use a dial gauge mounted in P 17 holder.
How do you check the crankshaft end play?
Gently pry the crank all the way forward and zero the gauge. The crank should move with very little effort and the dial indicator will read the clearance. In this case, we only have 0.002-inch so the thrust will need massaging. It’s worthwhile to discuss first why it’s important to have a thrust bearing.
How much sanding do you need for crankshaft end play?
Generally you may need to only increase the clearance by 0.002- or 0.003-inch, but you will be surprised at how much sanding this will require. Some engine builders will lightly dress the sanded face with 1000 grit paper to polish the surface once the proper clearance is achieved.
Can a crankshaft have excessive thrust clearance?
Crankshafts that are discovered suffering from excessive thrust clearance are rare, assuming no damage has occurred to the crankshaft. Alternatives may be to try a different bearing manufacturer to see if the clearance will improve although this is unlikely.
Gently pry the crank all the way forward and zero the gauge. The crank should move with very little effort and the dial indicator will read the clearance. In this case, we only have 0.002-inch so the thrust will need massaging. It’s worthwhile to discuss first why it’s important to have a thrust bearing.
Where is the thrust located in a crank endplay engine?
This makes crank endplay a spec that cannot be overlooked, and that alone should motivate all but the laziest of engine builders. We will be using both a small- and big-block Chevy for the images in this story, but the process is the same for all engines even when the thrust is located in the center main bearing as with Fords and the GM LS.
Generally you may need to only increase the clearance by 0.002- or 0.003-inch, but you will be surprised at how much sanding this will require. Some engine builders will lightly dress the sanded face with 1000 grit paper to polish the surface once the proper clearance is achieved.
Do you need to establish thrust clearance before checking endplay?
One cause that receives very little attention is also one that can be easily avoided. Before checking endplay, you need to establish the bearing clearance on the mains. That will determine the proper thrust bearing to be used.