The crankshaft can only be removed after the engine has been taken out of the vehicle, assuming that the flywheel or drive plate, vibration damper, timing chain(s), oil pan, oil pump, and piston/connecting rod assemblies have been detached. Before starting the crankshaft removal, check the end play by mounting a dial indicator aligned with the crankshaft and touching its end. Push the crankshaft to the rear and zero the dial indicator, then pry it to the front and check the reading to determine the end play. If it exceeds the limit, inspect the crankshaft thrust surfaces for wear; if no wear is found, new main bearings may resolve the issue. If a dial indicator is unavailable, feeler gauges can be used by pushing the crankshaft to the front and measuring the clearance between it and the thrust main bearing. Check the main bearing caps for markings indicating their locations, ensuring they are numbered consecutively from front to rear; if not, mark them appropriately. Loosen the main bearing cap bolts gradually until they can be removed by hand, noting any stud bolts for proper reinstallation. Gently tap the caps with a soft-face hammer to separate them from the engine block, using the bolts as levers if necessary, and take care not to drop the bearing inserts. Finally, lift the crankshaft out of the engine, ideally with assistance due to its weight, and return the bearing inserts to their places in the engine block and main bearing caps, tightening the bolts finger tight.
