Setting crank end float

[Rckt3]

Hello all, I’m currently working on a ‘69 bsa 650 lightening and I’m looking for some info or procedure on setting the crank end float. I hope I’m in the right area for this request.

[iansoady]

Is it not in the manual? Normally you need a dial indicator (clock gauge) so that you can set that up on the crank end.

Many years ago I was building an A series BMC engine and an elderly Bengali neighbour showed me how to check the end float by tapping the end of the crankshaft with a lump hammer and judging how far it moved by the sound. But you probably want something more sophisticated.

[Rckt3]

Hey Ian thx for the reply, no mention of how to set it in the Haynes manual I have, just the specification .0015-.003”. I want to make sure I have it right before putting it all together,,,,,again.

[iansoady]

I'd never rely on a Haynes... Is there not a proper BSA book? On engines I've built there are usually shims behind the drive side bearing outer.

How about here: https://www.bsaclub.com/?page_id=21

[Rckt3]

Yep, definitely more detailed than a Haynes manual, thx for the link.