I would be curious to see how the clearance differs with that of the original cap. Given the clearance the new cap is providing - is there any reason to remove the crank at all?
I did use the green plastigauge on the original bearing cap and shell. While the strip was compressed, it was somewhat less than with the new cap. As it turns out, I forgot to take a photo before I had wiped it off.
As for not removing the crank, while that is possible, my engine builder buddy noted that with the McCulloch supercharger I have for this engine that it would be prudent to have him machine a slot in both the crank and the harmonic balancer for a Woodruff key to help support the torque that the supercharger could put on the crank. He's coming for a visit to inspect the engine on Thursday and I plan on asking him about that further. This truck won't be taking part in any drag racing and maybe I don't need both a belt and suspenders.....
