What is crankshaft runout?

Category: automotive auto parts
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crankshaft runout. The amount by which a crankshaft is bent. Runout is checked by supporting the crankshaft in V-blocks or rollers and mounting a precision dial indicator so its arm rides the end of the crankshaft as it is rotated. Runout is measured in thousandths of inches.



Keeping this in view, how do you check crankshaft straightness?

To evaluate the straightness of the crankshaft, the shaft should be supported by V-blocks positioned on the end main bearing journals. Position a dial indicator at the three o'clock position on the center main bearing journal. Set the indicator at 0 (zero) and turn the crankshaft through one complete rotation.

Similarly, how do you check a crankshaft stroke? Zero dial calipers on the piston deck. Rotate the crankshaft until the piston is at BDC.

The best way to find the stroke length is to:
  1. Identify the crankshaft. Brand, model, part number, and/or other information will be stamped or etched on the crank.
  2. Look up the specifications online. - OR -
  3. Contact the manufacturer.

Considering this, which gauge used to check the run out of the main journal of the crankshaft?

A dial gauge installed on the middle-bearing journal shows run-out as the crankshaft is turned. In the absence of V-blocks, the crankshaft can be supported by the two upper half end bearings in the block (Fig.

How do you do crankshaft deflection?

  1. Sent your dial indicator to zero.
  2. open all crankcase covers.
  3. Engage turning gear.
  4. switch your turning gear to manual (if in auto)
  5. Turn the engine till the crank web horizontal to point ( to enable you to place dial indicator at a proper point)

22 Related Question Answers Found

How do you check camshaft straightness?

Camshaft straightness can be checked by placing it in V-blocks.

With the camshaft set up to measure straightness, also check base circle run-out.
  1. Locate the dial indicator plunger on the heel of the lobe and zero the gauge.
  2. Slowly rotate the camshaft until the lowest gauge reading is obtained.

What is bearing runout?

Run-out or runout is an inaccuracy of rotating mechanical systems, specifically that the tool or shaft does not rotate exactly in line with the main axis. In the case of bearings, run-out will cause vibration of the machine and increased loads on the bearings. Run-out is dynamic and cannot be compensated.

How do you measure bearing runout?

For radial run-out, start by mounting the bearing so you can rotate either the inner ring or outer ring, depending on which raceway you want to measure. The dial indicator should be held perpendicular to the surface of the raceway.

How do you check pinion shaft runout?

Measure the runout with a dial indicator that is mounted to the motor case. With the bike in high gear and spark plugs removed, roll the rear wheel so that the pinion shaft turns and run out can be measured. If runout is under . 003″, it's a go.

When should I grind my crankshaft?


The main reason crankshaft grinding is done is because the crank wears over time. Over thousands miles the end play between the crankshaft and the bearings increases. When the “fit” between the bearings and the crank isn't perfect it lowers oil pressure and decreases lubricity.

How does a crankshaft work?

A crankshaft is a rotating shaft which (in conjunction with the connecting rods) converts reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotational motion. The crankshaft rotates within the engine block through use of main bearings, and the crankpins rotate within the connecting rods using rod bearings.

What is a main journal crankshaft?

A journal is the part of a shaft that rotates inside a bearing. As can be seen above, there are two types of journal on a crankshaft - the main bearing journals form the axis of rotation for the crankshaft, and the connecting rod journals are secured to the ends of the connecting rods, which run up to the pistons.

What causes a bent crankshaft?

Extreme heat or alternating heating and cooling can result in a distorted crankshaft. The heat causes expansion and the cooling causes contraction. Repetition over time can lead to a bend. If there is a bearing failure, extra clearance will be created and the crankshaft will move around more freely in the engine.

How much can a crankshaft turn?

n2omike said: You can turn a crank as far as you want as long as you can find bearings. They used to make a lot of bearings as far under as 0.050" and 0.060" or more.

Can a crankshaft bend?


The crankshaft can bend severely or even break in some cases. In cases where a nitrided crankshaft is bent, it is usually not recommended to straighten. Because the crank jumps around in the engine, the crankshaft can pull on the housing bores of the connecting rods and engine block.

How do you check engine stroke?

How to Measure a Cylinder Bore & Stroke
  1. Use your measuring tape to measure the inside diameter of the cylinder. This will give you the cylinder's bore.
  2. Ensure the piston is at the bottom of the cylinder. Measure the distance of the cylinder from the piston at the bottom to the top. This distance the piston travels gives you the cylinder stroke.