How to Check Crankshaft End Play or Thrust Using a Magnetic Deck Bridge: Engine Building 101

Crankshafts are among the most abused components within an engine.

Transmissions can create a tremendous amount of forward force on crankshafts, especially in high performance applications. That's why it's important to check crankshaft thrust clearance, which is the amount of clearance between the crankshaft’s thrust plate and the vertical surface of the main thrust bearing.

While there will always be some force on the crankshaft, too much crankshaft end play from these forces can lead to damage and the need to tear down the engine. It’s really important to do your due diligence during assembly, so we’ll walk you through the process of how to check crankshaft thrust with a magnetic deck bridge.

Tools Used

[joeshulman]

How about a video show how the clearance the trust bearing..

[jaybirdcrowfoot]

Nice, cleaning the thrusting bearing for a proper adjustment readout and true alignment

[brettwitucki]

Wouldn't you be working the front bearing surface for transmission load?

[thomasv]

i thought you had to pry it forward and backword to get the total end play/thrust measurement, not just prying it forward

[blindaccuracy]

Wait your telling me you need movement?