Mustang Cobra V8-281 4.6L DOHC VIN V MFI (1997)
Crankshaft: Testing and Inspection
Cleaning and Inspection
CAUTION:
Handle the crankshaft (6303) carefully to avoid damage to the finished surfaces.
CLEANING
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Clean the crankshaft (6303) with hot or cold commercial tank solutions, solvents and brushing, or by steam cleaning. Be sure to clean the drilled
oil passages that connect the main and connecting journals.
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Blow out all oil passages with compressed air.
INSPECTION
After cleaning, the crankshaft must be inspected to determine if it should be reused, reconditioned, or replaced. If the crankshaft has been
subjected to or will be subjected to high-stress operation, consider a magnetic inspection of the crankshaft for cracks that cannot be seen with the
eye. This service is available through most automotive machine shops.
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Inspect the main and connecting rod journals for cracks, scratches, grooves, scores or rough finish.
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Inspect the crankshaft rear oil seal surface for nicks, sharp edges or burrs that might damage the oil seal during installation or cause premature
oil seal wear.
PILOT BEARING
On an engine used with a manual transmission a needle roller bearing and adapter is used as a pilot bearing. It is press-fit directly into the engine
crankshaft and should not be loose.
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Check the fit of the clutch pilot bearing (7600) in the bore of the crankshaft.
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Inspect the inner surface of the pilot bearing for wear or a bell-mouth condition.
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Check the inside diameter of the pilot bearing to see if it is worn or damaged. The bearing and adapter cannot be serviced separately. The
needle pilot bearing can only be installed with the seal end of the pilot bearing facing the transmission. The pilot bearing is pre-greased and
does not require additional lubrication. Install a new pilot bearing whenever a pilot bearing is removed.
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Inspect for roughness, evidence of overheating or loss of lubricant. Replace pilot bearing if any of these conditions are found.
