coltonstewart

Im just trying to get the main bearing cap off!!!!! This chilton's manual I have implies that you can get the main bearing cap off without the engine out of the truck, and says that the main bearings can be replaced with the crankshaft installed as well.

So, I came to the conclusion that the bearing cap wasn't going anywhere as easy as the book suggests and began taking everything else off including the oil pump, which I thought would provide enough clearance to wiggle the cap loose.



Now I still have the rear oil seal retainer (very left piece on block shown) clearly blocking the cap from sliding out.




Has anyone else come across this issue? They made this engine with the idea in mind that you are able to maintenence the main bearings without engine removal.....but please dont tell me I have to remove the tansmission just to remove this retarded cap!! Ill grind the bottom of the rear oil seal retainer before I go there lol.

sam333

I dont care what the manual says, if you got to pull the crank, you should pull the engine.
You just cant do a good enough job ( cleaning, inspection or repair).

coltonstewart

I shouldnt have to pull the crank I am trying to get to a slipped bearing and checking bearing clearances with plastiguage. If the damage isnt bad enough to replace the crank I dont plan on pulling it

sam333

If you really have a spun bearing then you have a damaged crank.

TNRabbit

Why the heck are you using a Chilton's manual when you can pull the FSM directly off the web??

coltonstewart

The chiltons manual actually covers alot more procedures and is very helpful. It even contains some of the exact diagrams the FSM has.

Andy A

Looks like it is hitting against the rear oil seal retainer

coltonstewart

"Now I still have the rear oil seal retainer (very left piece on block shown) clearly blocking the cap from sliding out."



Haha yeah, I am aware of that, just want to know if theres a more viable alternative to removing the transmission or grinding the seal retainer.

There should be, or else this one piece is contradicting the practicality of the engine design. The access to this part of the engine without removal of the engine or crank is a characteristic developement in the 3vze, so what the hell.

Screw it, i think im just gonna grind the seal retainer....I dont yet see any function for that overhanging piece, nor do I forsee any complications with the oil pan seal or anything....

sam333

The engines were NOT designed to have major work( bottom end) done to them in the truck. Its way easier ,faster and does a better job to remove the engine.

coltonstewart

I dont have the equipment or a garage or anything necissary for engine removal. I was really trusting what the chiltons manual said, and counting on the approach. And this far into the tear-down, I just want to continue, assess damage, replace bearings and gaskets and get outta there!

mic

don't grind on it, pull the motor and do it the right way.

WesinTX

Like usual nobody answers your question and just tells you that you are doing it wrong, even when you state upfront that you know there is an alternative.

mic

OK, having rebuilt my 3.0 if you grind on it i fore see a sealing problem when u go ahead and place the oil pan back on.

rustyf99

iTrader: (1)

I think the greater concern would be the strength of the stud mounts in that retainer if you grind enough off of there to get the bearing cap out. I guess it's worth grinding if you would rather get it done and are willing to take the risk of the oil pan leaking or having to re-do some other part of the work again later. I know that's not what you wanted to hear but these engines are PITA's to work on and really, it's easier to yank them. But I know where you are, I've rebuilt engines while open to the weather on a gravel driveway. Good luck!!

coltonstewart

You must have seen my other thread and video lol?

Yeah I can see that if i grind ill end up having to seal the hell outta those mounting studs and baffle plate. The studs dont hold alot of weight or tension so I think its worth the risk grinding...

Thanks for the input everybody

GRiP

fooook it grind the fooker off

wyoming9

iTrader: (1)

If the problem was not solved 5 years ago I would think it might be no longer a pressing matter