Found this in my oil pan

[dcdoug]

The oil pan scraper blocks removal of the main caps, but there is as much as I could show of #3. Any thoughts? I think the engine's got to come out at this point or I just won't feel good about driving it hard.

[blykins]

I don't see anything blatantly obvious.

Did you check crank thrust clearance? Very easy with the pan off.

I'm still in favor of buttoning it back up, changing the filter and oil, and putting a few miles on it.

[dcdoug]

Originally Posted by blykins

I don't see anything blatantly obvious.

Did you check crank thrust clearance? Very easy with the pan off.

I'm still in favor of buttoning it back up, changing the filter and oil, and putting a few miles on it.

How would I check crank trust clearance? The pan hasn't been removed, just the bottom panel has been removed. So depending on where I need to check it, I might or might not have access.

[blykins]

Bolt the cap back on, torque all the bolts, put a dial indicator on the crank snout, pulley, whatever is easiest, then take a screwdriver and pry in between a crank counterweight and the block, back and forth.

By the way, when the cap goes back on and the bolts are run down, pry forward on the crank while you torque the bolts. That helps set the cap and thrust bearing.