Crankshaft end play is important to check in all engine builds. You want to make sure there is no pressure or binding at the flange of the thrust bearing. On these John Deere applications the end play needs to be checked once the engine is installed, as well as during the assembly. If the input shaft is not installed properly into the clutch and the P.T.O. clutch, there can be pressure on the rear of the crankshaft. This is especially a problem with the Quad Range transmissions in tractor models 4030, 4040, 4050, 4230, 4240, 4250, 4430, 4440, 4450, 4630, 4640, 4650, 8430, 8440, 8450, 8630, 8640, 8650 and 8850. Crankshaft end play should be checked and noted before the engine is installed. The reading should be taken at the front of the engine with a dial indicator attached to the timing cover. Using a pry bar or similar tool to move the crank to the rear of it’s travel, set your indicator to zero. Then gently pry the crank forward and note your measure. Use the same method to check end play once the engine is installed and look for any change in that measure. Make sure to remove all drive belts and disconnect the hydraulic pump drive. It should be noted that failure to check this may void the warranty of many engine parts and remanufactured engines.
Crankshaft end play is important to check in all engine builds. You want to make sure there is no pressure or binding at the flange of the thrust bearing. On these John Deere applications the end play needs to be checked once the engine is installed, as well as during the assembly. If the input shaft is not installed properly into the clutch and the P.T.O. clutch, there can be pressure on the rear of the crankshaft. This is especially a problem with the Quad Range transmissions in tractor models 4030, 4040, 4050, 4230, 4240, 4250, 4430, 4440, 4450, 4630, 4640, 4650, 8430, 8440, 8450, 8630, 8640, 8650 and 8850. Crankshaft end play should be checked and noted before the engine is installed. The reading should be taken at the front of the engine with a dial indicator attached to the timing cover. Using a pry bar or similar tool to move the crank to the rear of it’s travel, set your indicator to zero. Then gently pry the crank forward and note your measure. Use the same method to check end play once the engine is installed and look for any change in that measure. Make sure to remove all drive belts and disconnect the hydraulic pump drive. It should be noted that failure to check this may void the warranty of many engine parts and remanufactured engines.

Engine Pro Tech Committee with special thanks to Reliance Power Parts

February, 2019