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  We're using ARP main studs for added strength. Studs 
                              are considerably stronger than bolts because they 
                              are not "twisted" when torqued to spec. 
                              Thread them in hand tight, do not torque the bare 
                              stud down. |  |  
  Prior to installing the crank and main bearings, 
                              we recommend checking main and rod bearing clearances. 
                              Refer to our article Measuring 
                              Bearing Clearances in the Fundamentals section 
                              of the Tech Department. | 
                           
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  Lay a bead of silicone sealer in the seats for the 
                              rear main seal. Once this is done the crank can 
                              be set down and torqued to specification. If you 
                              are using studs, or ARP bolts, be sure to use their 
                              torque ratings. |  |  
  On late-model 5.0L the rear main seal is one-piece. 
                              Coat the seal with a little oil and then slip the 
                              seal over the crank. The expander spring in the 
                              seal faces towards the front of the block. | 
                           
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  Place some moly on the crank side of the main bearings, 
                              then carefully place the crank in place. |  |  
  Load the main caps with their bearing shells, use 
                              moly on the crank sides only. | 
                           
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  After installing the main caps and torquing to specs 
                              (we used the specs provided by ARP.) The next step 
                              is to seat teh thrust bearing. Use a large screw 
                              driver against the counterweights, and pry the crank 
                              forward and backward a few times. Then torque the 
                              thrust bearing cap with the crank leveraged forward 
                              (towards the front of the engine.) It may seem like 
                              the crank is going no where, but you can check for 
                              thrust end-play, as described in the next frame... |  |  
  With a dial indicator zeroed against the end of 
                              the crank, and base secured to the block, pry the 
                              crank back towards the direction of the flywheel 
                              and note the total end-play. Then pry it forward 
                              and note the endplay. Add the two values to obtain 
                              total crank endplay. Acceptable values are between 
                              .004-inch and .010-inch. If the endplay is not enough, 
                              the thrust bearing flanges can be "lapped" 
                              across sand paper to increase play. In the rare 
                              case of too much clearance, you'll need to consult 
                              with a machine shop, as the crank may be excessively 
                              worn. |