Montero Sport 2WD V6-3.0L SOHC (1997)
Crankshaft: Testing and Inspection
Pin/Journal Oil Clearance (Plastigage Method)
The crankshaft oil clearance can be measured easily by using Plastigage, as follows:
1. Remove oil and grease and any other foreign matters from the crankshaft journal and bearing inner surface.
2. Install the crankshaft.
3. Cut Plastigage to the same length as the width of the bearing and place it on the journal in parallel with its axis.
4. Gently place the crankshaft bearing cap over it and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
5. Remove the bolts and gently remove the crankshaft bearing cap.
6. Measure the width of the crushed Plastigage at its widest section by using a scale printed on the Plastigage package.
7. Measure the outside diameter of the journals and the inside diameter of the crankshaft bearings. If the difference between them (oil clearance)
exceeds the limit, replace the crankshaft bearing and, if necessary, crankshaft.
Standard value: 0.02 - 0.04 mm (0.0008 - 0.0015 inch)
Limit: 0.1 mm (0.003 inch)
NOTE: Do not attempt an undersize machining of the crankshaft with special surface treatment. This crankshaft can be identified by its dull gray
appearance.
