Subaru 12200AA260 CRANKSHAFT Complete

Separate the crankcase and remove the crankshaft rear oil seal. Before lifting out the crankshaft connecting rod assembly, check the crankshaft end play by gently prying or pushing the crankshaft all the way to the rear of the engine. Use feeler gauges between the crankshaft and the thrust face of the center main bearing to determine the clearance, which is equivalent to crankshaft end play. A typical crankshaft end play will fall between 0.003 to 0.010 inch (0.076 to 0.254 mm). If it exceeds this range, inspect the crankshaft thrust surfaces for wear after removal; if no wear is found, new main bearings should correct the end play. Carefully lift out the crankshaft and store it in a safe place to prevent damage. Remove the main bearings from the case halves and store them in a clearly marked container for reinstallation in their original locations if they are to be reused.

Clean the faces of the bearings in the right crankcase, then carefully lay it in position without disturbing the Plastigage.

On 2008 and later models, the thrust bearing has been moved to the #5 or rear bearing.

Install the crankcase bolts and tighten them, ensuring not to rotate the crankshaft at any time during this operation.