Note: The crankshaft can only be removed after the engine has been removed. We also believe that the gearbox, flywheel, timing belt, cylinder head, oil pan, oil pump, intermediate plate, fuel feed pipe, strainer, and piston-connecting rod assemblies have already been removed. The rear crankshaft oil seal retainer must be disconnected from the cylinder block before removing the crankshaft.
1. Before removing the crankshaft, check the play. Install DTI (Dial play gauge) so that its rod is in line with the crankshaft and touches it with its tip (see Figure 14.1).
Figure 14.1. Checking the crankshaft axial play using a dial gauge.
2. Extend the crankshaft as far away from the gauge as possible and set the gauge pointer to zero. Then press the crankshaft against the gauge as much as possible and check the play using the indicator readings. If the clearance is greater than specification, check that the crankshaft bearing surfaces are not worn. If no wear is observed, new thrust washers should correct the play.
3. If a dial gauge is not available, you can use a feeler gauge. Gently push the crankshaft toward the right side of the engine until it stops. Slide the blades of the feeler gauge between the crankshaft and the main bearing, including the thrust washers, to determine the clearance (see Figure 14.3).
Figure 14.3. Checking the axial play of the crankshaft using a feeler gauge with a set of plates of different thicknesses.
4. Check that the main bearing caps have numbers indicating their installation positions in the block, as well as marks in the form of arrows pointing towards the timing belt for correct orientation during reinstallation (see Figure 14.4).
5. Unscrew the retaining bolts and remove the thrust bearing caps. Separate the lower thrust washers from the center bearing cap once it is removed (see Fig. 14.5). If the covers do not separate from the face of the unit, lightly tap them with a plastic or copper-coated hammer. If bearing shells are to be reused, store them with their caps for safekeeping. However, if you are not sure that the engine has low mileage, we recommend replacing them with new ones.
Figure 14.4. Mark on the main bearing cap showing its location and orientation.
Figure 14.5. After unscrewing the bolts, remove the main caps and the lower thrust half rings of the central cap.
6. After removing the crankshaft from the crankcase, remove the rear main bearing shells and side thrust washers. Store them with their lids for proper placement if they are to be used again.
7. Remove the crankshaft oil seals from the oil pump housing and the rear oil seal fastener.
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