Genuine Chevrolet Metro Crankshaft

Chevrolet Metro Crankshaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Engine Crankshaft
  96055086
  Q: How to install the crankshaft during engine reassembly on Chevrolet Metro?

  A: Crankshaft installation is the first task in engine reassembly, assuming the engine block and crankshaft have been cleaned, inspected, and repaired. Position the engine with the bottom facing up, then remove the main bearing cap bolts and lift out the caps, laying them out in the correct order. If present, remove the original bearing inserts from the block and caps, ensuring the bearing surfaces are spotless. Clean the back sides of the new main bearing inserts and place one in each main bearing saddle in the block, ensuring that any grooved insert is installed correctly. Lay the corresponding bearing from each set in the main bearing cap, ensuring the tab fits into the recess and that the oil holes align. The thrust bearings should be installed in the number three saddle with oil grooves facing out. Clean the bearing faces and crankshaft main bearing journals, checking the oil holes for dirt. Once the crankshaft is clean, lay it in position in the main bearings and check the main bearing oil clearance using Plastigage, placing it on each crankshaft main bearing journal. Clean the bearing faces in the caps and install them without disturbing the Plastigage. Tighten the main bearing cap bolts in three steps, starting with the inner mains and working outward, without rotating the crankshaft. After removing the caps, compare the width of the crushed Plastigage to the scale on the envelope to determine the oil clearance, ensuring it meets specifications. If the clearance is incorrect, check for dirt or oil interference and assess the journal for taper. Scrape off any Plastigage material carefully. For final crankshaft installation, lift the crankshaft out, clean the bearing faces in the block, and apply a uniform layer of moly-base grease or engine assembly lube. Ensure the crankshaft journals are clean before laying the crankshaft back in place, then clean the bearing faces in the caps and apply lubricant. Install the caps and bolts, tightening all except the thrust bearing cap bolts, which should be tightened to 10-to-12 ft-lbs. Tap the ends of the crankshaft to align the thrust surfaces, then retighten all main bearing cap bolts to the specified torque. For manual transaxle equipped models, install a new pilot bearing in the crankshaft. Rotate the crankshaft by hand to check for binding, and finally, check the crankshaft endplay with a feeler gauge or dial indicator, ensuring it is correct if the thrust faces are not worn and new bearings are installed.