Crankshaft and bearings — inspection (Renault Espace I)

1. Clean the crankshaft thoroughly. Use wire to clean the oil holes.

2. If necessary, remove the primary bearing from the end of the crankshaft. To do this, screw in self-tapping screws of a suitable diameter and pull out the seal together with them. Hammer in a new seal with a suitable punch. Note that if the flywheel is not secured with a lock washer, the primary bearing is glued. The outer side of such a bearing must be lubricated with a special grease "Loctite" before installation.

3. If it is necessary to regrind the crankshaft main journals, entrust this work to a specialist. Inspect the bearing shells for damage. The bearing shells have a repair size (see specifications - the V6 engine shaft cannot be reground). The diameter of the main journals must be measured using a micrometer in various positions. Based on the measurement results, determine the ovality or taper of the main journals.

4. If possible, check the crankshaft center journal for runout. To do this, install a micrometer with a feeler gauge against the center journal of the main bearing. Slowly turn the crankshaft and read the micrometer. The maximum runout can be no more than 0.02 mm. If you are in doubt, have the shaft checked at a car repair shop.

5. Installation of the crankshaft on individual groups of engines is described in chapter 3. Before finally tightening the main bearing cap bolts, measure the shaft axial clearance.

Text published on the website: RenaultBook