Note: The crankshaft can only be removed from the engine when it is removed from the vehicle. This means that the flywheel/drive plate, crankshaft sprocket, timing belt, oil pan, oil pickup, oil pump, oil deflector and (on B18B1 engines) the connecting rod and piston assemblies have already been dismantled. Before removing the crankshaft, it is also necessary to unbolt and separate the rear oil seal holder from the cylinder block.
1. Before removing the crankshaft from the engine, measure its axial play. Attach the DTI gauge to the block coaxially with the crankshaft, resting its plunger against the cheek of one of the crankpins or the end of the journal (see accompanying illustration) the last one.
Note: The main bearing caps and their connecting bridge must remain in place and their fasteners tightened to the required torque.
2. Push the crankshaft all the way back and reset the gauge indicator. Now push the shaft in the opposite direction and read the gauge reading. The amount of free play of the shaft in the longitudinal direction is its axial clearance. Compare the measurement result with the requirements Specifications. If the clearance exceeds the maximum allowable value, check the thrust surfaces of the shaft for signs of excessive wear. If there are no obvious signs of wear, installing new thrust washers will usually correct the situation.
3. If you don't have a dial gauge at hand, you can use a regular blade-type feeler gauge. Carefully move the shaft forward along the engine until it stops, then determine the size of the resulting gap between the crank cheek and the front wall of the thrust bearing (fourth) main bearing, having tightly seated a feeler gauge blade of the appropriate thickness into it (see accompanying illustration).
4a. In addition to the serial number, the covers are usually marked with cast arrows. On correctly installed covers, the arrow should point in the direction of the timing belt. In several steps (1/4 turn per set) loosen the main bearing cap and/or connecting bridge bolts enough to allow them to be removed by hand.
4b. On Civic models, check the main bearing caps for alignment marks. If necessary, apply the marks yourself using a center punch.
4c. On Integra models, check the main bearing caps for alignment markings. The caps should be numbered sequentially from front to back across the engine (see accompanying illustration).
5. Remove the main bearing caps or axle assembly. On Integra models, gently tap the remaining caps with a soft-faced hammer to separate them from the engine block. Use the mounting bolts as leverage if necessary. Be careful not to drop the bearings.
6. Carefully remove the crankshaft from the engine (use the help of an assistant). Make sure the main bearing shells remain in their beds in the block and caps. Install the caps on the block, then hand tighten the cap mounting bolts.