Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

45. Crankshaft and Bearing Installation

Crankshaft and Bearings Installation

Important: The upper main bearings have an oil groove and oil holes, the lower bearings do not have oil grooves or oil holes.





1. Install the upper main bearings into the cylinder block and lubricate with engine oil.





2. Install the lower main bearings into the lower crankcase and lubricate with engine oil.

Important: Install the upper thrust bearing washers with the oil groove (2) facing outward.





3. Install the two upper thrust bearing washers into the cylinder block and lubricate with engine oil.





4. Install the oil pump drive chain to the crankshaft gear.
5. Carefully place the crankshaft on to the main bearings in the cylinder block.





6. Thoroughly clean and remove any oil residue from the cylinder block mating surfaces.

Important: Avoid applying an excessive amount of sealant to the surface.

7. Apply a continuous bead of GM P/N 12345997 or equivalent sealant to the cylinder block mating rails.





8. Carefully place the lower crankcase assembly on to the cylinder block.
9. Gently tap the lower crankcase into place with a suitable tool.

Important: Gradual and uniform tightening is important for the lower crankcase bolts.

10. Install the ten main bearing cap bolts finger tight.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.





11. Progressively torque the main bearing cap bolts (1-10) using two steps in the sequence shown.
1st Pass Tighten the main bearing cap bolts (1-10) to 42 Nm (31 ft. lbs.).
2nd Pass Tighten the main bearing cap bolts (1-10) to 60 Nm (44 ft. lbs.).
12. Install the twelve lower crankcase bolts. Progressively torque the lower crankcase bolts (11-22) using two steps in the sequence shown.
1st Pass Tighten the twelve lower crankcase bolts (11-22) to 19 Nm (14 ft. lbs.).
2nd Pass Tighten the twelve lower crankcase bolts (11-22) to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.).
13. Inspect that the crankshaft rotates smoothly by hand.