Detroit Diesel — Install Rear Outboard Bearing Support
Repair & overhaul · Crankshaft Outboard Bearing Support (Rear)
From a Detroit Diesel service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
Before you start
- The indicator reading must remain at zero while adjusting the outboard bearing.
Procedure
- If the engine was not originally built with a rear outboard bearing support, remove the 1/2" pipe plug or 3" cup plug in the rear of the crankshaft and remove the 1/4" pipe plug in the crankshaft oil
- Install a new crankshaft timing gear with counterbored bolt holes; tighten the 1.62" long bolts to 35-39 lb-ft.
- Install the flywheel housing.
- Apply a thin film of Lubriplate over a new seal ring and place it on the back of the bearing support; install it in the counterbore of the flywheel housing.
- Place a magnetic base dial indicator on the flywheel housing above the vertical axis with the indicator probe on the crankshaft cup plug counterbore.
- Slide new hardened flat washers on the seven special support attaching bolts.
- Apply light upward pressure by prying with a screwdriver while tightening the bolts to 71-75 lb-ft.
- Check the clearance between the crankshaft and outboard bearing with a 1/4" feeler gage.
- Attach the flywheel lifting tool and position the flywheel into the flywheel housing; align the bolt holes and push the flywheel in evenly.
Tools required
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Bearing support bolts 71-75 lb-ft (96-102 N·m)
- Clearance minimum .001" at bottom; .0033"-.0097" on vertical axis at top
- Crankshaft timing gear bolts 35-39 lb-ft (47-53 N·m)
Source: Detroit Diesel service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.