Note: The crankshaft can only be removed if the engine is removed from the vehicle. It is assumed that by the time the crankshaft is removed, the flywheel has already been removed (or faceplate), crankshaft pulley and sprocket, sump, oil pump, oil filler pipe and pistons with connecting rods. Before continuing disassembly, the rear cuff with the collar should be removed.
1. Before removing the crankshaft, check its axial play. To do this, secure the dial indicator so that the measuring rod is directed along the shaft axis and its tip touches the end of the shaft (figure 14.1).
2. Move the shaft back as far as it will go and set the indicator scale to zero. Now, using the lever, move the shaft forward until it stops and read the axial play value on the indicator. If this value exceeds the permissible level specified in Technical data, check the crankshaft thrust surfaces for wear. If wear is not noticeable, replacing the thrust bearings will help eliminate excess play.
3. If you don't have an arrow indicator, you can use a set of flat feeler gauges. Move the crankshaft by hand or with a lever towards the front of the engine. Measure the clearance between the thrust bearing of the 4th main bearing and the thrust surface of the crankshaft (figure 14.3). The thrust bearing on all engines is located on the fourth main bearing. A 4-cylinder engine has only five main bearings, while a V-shaped engine has four.
4. On a 4-cylinder engine, ensure that the main bearing caps are marked to match the bearing number from the first cylinder to the last. If there is no marking, apply it yourself using digital stamps or a center punch. Typically there is an arrow on the surface of the covers pointing towards the front of the engine. Gradually loosen the support cover mounting bolts, unscrewing them no more than a quarter of a turn at a time, in the reverse order of tightening (see Figure 24.12,a), until they can no longer be pulled back by hand. On a V-shaped engine, unscrew the bolts securing the crankcase to the upper block in the sequence shown in the figure 14.4, until they can no longer be turned away by hand.
Note: On a V-engine, the crankshaft main bearing caps are integral with the crankcase. In order to remove the crankshaft, the crankcase must be disconnected from the upper block. Note the position of all the crankcase mounting bolts, as there are three different sizes.
5. Lightly tap the bearing caps or crankcase with a soft-faced hammer, then remove them from the shaft. Be careful not to drop the liners if they remain inside the lids.
6. Carefully lift the crankshaft. It is better to use someone's help when doing this, since the shaft is quite heavy. Place the liners in the old places in the supports and covers and screw the bolts in by hand.