The crankshaft can only be removed after the engine has been taken out of the vehicle, assuming that the driveplate, crankshaft pulley, timing belt, sprocket, oil pan, oil pump, and piston/connecting rod assemblies have already been detached. Before removing the crankshaft, check the endplay by mounting a dial indicator with the stem aligned with the crankshaft and touching one of the crank throws. Push the crankshaft to the rear and zero the dial indicator, then pry it to the front and check the reading to determine the endplay. If it exceeds the specified limit, inspect the crankshaft thrust surfaces for wear; if no wear is found, new main bearings should resolve the issue. If a dial indicator is unavailable, feeler gauges can be used by prying or pushing the crankshaft to the front and slipping the gauges between the crankshaft and the front face of the rear main bearing to measure clearance. The main bearing cap assembly features a cast-in arrow pointing to the timing belt end of the engine; loosen the cap bolts gradually until the assembly can be removed by hand, ensuring to follow the reverse of the tightening sequence. Gently tap the cap assembly with a soft-face hammer to separate it from the engine block, using the bolts as levers if necessary, and take care not to drop the bearing inserts. Finally, carefully lift the crankshaft out of the engine, ideally with assistance due to its weight, and return the cap assembly to its location on the engine block, tightening the bolts finger tight.