So ive built my first engine and ive just now learned about being able to pinch a thrust bearing... is there an easy way of knowing if its pinched?? i built the engine on a stand and the end float was within spec, but I have since flipped the engine with the front pulley off.. The engine is now in the car almost ready to fire(front cover, water pump, and alternator)but I cant help but worry something is buggered. if i pull the pulley off again will i be able to see a bearing out of place through the front cover?? I'm sure everyone would understand I do not really want to pull the front of the engine off again, but it would be stupid to come this far to screw it now haha. another thing to mention is when the engine was on the stand after i installed the clutch i had zero end float. I appreciate any replies. Thanks guys!!!!

 

Firstly, check to see if you have ANY end float. This is the amount the eccentric shaft/pulley/flywheel will move front to back. The spec is 0.0015″ to 0.0028″ which is not much at all, but some. If you have absolutely NO float, you have a problem. (Source: https://www.mazdatrix.com/front-pulley-thrust-bearings/) It would probably be best to pull the engine again and do the job right the first time.

 

there is this too