CH-18 crankshaft endplay
 

Am I correct that the crankshaft endplay is not adjustable on the CH-18's? If it's too much, is replacing the crankcase cover supposed to help or am I just screwed?

I bet the service manual knows.....

From the service manual, Hope this helps you.

Some specifications use a needle type thrust bearing,
thrust washer and shim spacer to control end play of
crankshaft. If these items are noted during disassembly,
make sure they are reinstalled in sequence shown. A
different procedure will have to be followed to check and
adjust crankshaft end play on these models.

Race for thrust bearing presses loosely into closure
plate. If it is not already installed, push it into crankshaft
bore inside closure plate. Pack thrust bearing with heavy
grease and stick bearing into race. Wipe some grease
on face of thrust washer and stick it onto thrust bearing.
Wipe some grease on face of original shim spacer and
stick it onto thrust washer.

Install closure plate onto crankcase without applying
RTV sealant and secure it with only two or three
fasteners at this time.

Use a dial indicator to check
crankshaft end play. End play should be 0.070/1.190 mm
(0.0028/0.0468 in.), except for CH25 engines below
Serial No. 2403500008 end play should be
0.050/0.75 mm (0.0020/0.0295 in.). Shim spacers are
available in three color coded thicknesses listed below if
adjustment is needed.

Crankshaft End Play Shims
Green: 0.8366-0.9127 mm
(0.8750 mm/0.034 in. Nominal)
Yellow: 1.0652-1.1414 mm
(1.1033 mm/0.043 in. Nominal)
Red: 1.2938-1.3700 mm
(1.3319 mm/0.052 in. Nominal)

This turned out to be one that doesn't have a thrust bearing and it needs more work than it's worth. I'm going to run it until it's dead and then buy a new Command for the 1864.