Caravan FWD V6-3.3L VIN 3 Flex Fuel (2001)
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When checking #1 main bearing shim #2 main bearing.
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When checking #2 main bearing shim #1 & #3 main bearing.
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When checking #3 main bearing shim #2 & #4 main bearing.
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When checking #4 main bearing shim #3 main bearing.
NOTE: Remove all shims before reassembling engine.
2. Alternative Method:
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Support the weight of the crankshaft with a jack under the counterweight adjacent to the bearing being checked.
3. Remove oil film from surface to be checked. Plastigage is soluble in oil.
4. Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire width of the bearing shell in the cap approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) off center and away from the
oil holes (Fig. 58). (In addition, suspected areas can be checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspected area). Torque the bearing cap bolts of
the bearing being checked to the proper specifications.
5. Remove the bearing cap and compare the width of the flattened Plastigage (Fig. 59) with the scale provided on the package. Locate the band
closest to the same width. This band shows the amount of clearance in thousandths. Differences in readings between the ends indicate the amount
of taper present. Record all readings taken. Plastigage generally is accompanied by two scales. One scale is in inches, the other is a metric scale.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for the specifications you are checking.
PLASTIGAGE METHOD-ENGINE OUT-OF-VEHICLE
1. With engine in the inverted position (crankshaft up) and mounted on a repair stand, remove main journal cap.
2. Remove oil from journal and bearing shell.
3. Cut Plastigage to same length as width of the bearing and place it in parallel with the journal axis (Fig. 58).
4. Carefully install the main bearing cap and tighten the bolts to specified torque.
CAUTION: Do not rotate crankshaft or the Plastigage will be smeared.
5. Carefully remove the bearing cap and measure the width of the Plastigage at the widest part using the scale on the Plastigage package (Fig. 59).
Refer to Engine Specifications for proper clearances. If the clearance exceeds the specified limits, replace the main bearing(s) with the appropriate
size, and if necessary, have the crankshaft machined to next undersize.
