crank endplay
 

I was reading a build and the builder was very careful checking crank endplay. The author noted that proper endplay promoted less rolling resistance, less horsepower to turn. I dont understand how to adjust endplay?? Anybody ever tackle a job like that??

Endplay is set by the thrust bearing. (#3 main) I always check the endplay, but I have never had one tight enough where I had to change the clearance.

Andy

I have seen people hit the ends of the crank with a dead blow type hammer but I dont know if that was to adjust or just to seat the bearings.

I guess they could be either too tight or too loose?? If you had to adjust it one way or the other, what would you do, hit it with a deadblow hammer like big red:confused:

If I had one that was too loose I'd definately get a different set of bearings. If it was too tight I'd find a way to take a couple thou off. Maybe sand it or something.

Andy

You won't find it too tight, but when it becomes too loose, you correct it with a new set of main bearings with a thicker (on the side) thrust bearing. Actually, when it becomes too loose, it's probably time for a rebuild, but either way, it's corrected with the thrust bearing.

Take care,
~Chris

Occasionally you will find the thrust too tight with a new set of bearings. When this happens, you simply sand the thrust bearing surface with some 400-600 grit sandpaper on a granite machinists block or good flat machined surface such as a mill table. For a SBF, the thrust should be about 0.004-0.005" with a manual transmission, just slightly less with an auto trans.