> Bill Mazzacane Wrote:
> -------------------------------------------------------
> > Francois Labat Wrote:
>
> > -------------------------------------------------------
>
> > Once the case and crank was bolted together, I could spin the crank by
>
> > hand, but felt tough.
>
> There should be some side play on the crank, after the case is
> assembled.
>
> It is common for a crankshaft to be stuck, or bound, and need to be
> centered inside the crankcase after assembly. Usually a wack with a
> brass hammer on each side of the crank will loosen the crank and allow
> it to rotate freely.
>
> I have a special tool for this to support the crank webs at bdc to
> prevent tweaking the crank, but if you don't have special tools you can
> drive 1 or 2 wedges into the crank at BDC to prevent tweaking the crank
> when you tap the crank with a brass hammer.
>
> Did you oil or grease the main seals? Main seals require lubrication
> before an engine is started. I like using a hi quality silicone fork
> seal grease, but anything other than wheel bearing grease will work.
>
> If you pack the seal with too much grease, it will cause an air-leak at
> the main seal.
>
> If none of these ideas work, you may consider disassembly and inspecting
> the main bearings, they might not be seated properly in the crankcase
> half.
>
> Did you inspect the ring end gaps?
>
> The majority of drag caused by the rings occur at the ring end gaps. So
> I am in the habit of dragging a fine file lightly over the ring ends to
> lightly round the corners before assembly.
>
> I prefer to assemble a top end with the ring lands and cylinder lubed
> with oil before sliding the cylinder on. A well lubed top end on
> assembly prevents a lot of cylinder wear in the first few seconds the
> engine runs. If an engine isn't adequately lubed, the hone pattern will
> quickly wear off.
>
> Bill M.
Thanks , reassuring that I can maybe get it set right by a little hammerin’.
There technically isn’t axial play in the crank unless you heat up the cases ? I don’t see how the crank could have movement left and right if it’s a press fit (interference fit on the bearings). I’ll give it a tap with heat later. Leave the case bolts on. I for sure can see that there is slightly more gab from crank to case on one side. Small but that could be it
Wish I could mess with it rn but gotta go mess with my truck.