CWEA Maintenance Technologist Practice Test

To check a flywheel face runout, where should the dial indicator be positioned?

1. At the top of the flywheel

2. The side of the engine block

3. At the bell housing and pointer on the flywheel face

4. On the front of the flywheel

The correct answer is: The side of the engine block

The correct positioning of the dial indicator when checking a flywheel face runout is critical for obtaining accurate measurements. Placing the dial indicator at the bell housing with the pointer on the flywheel face allows for direct measurement of any variations in the flywheel's alignment and flatness. This method ensures that the measurements taken are relevant to the actual mounting surface of the flywheel, which is where most critical alignments will occur in relation to the engine's components. By measuring at the bell housing, you are effectively determining how much the flywheel might wobble or vary as it rotates, which is essential for proper engine performance and longevity. Measuring at the top of the flywheel or the front may not account for any misalignment that could be present, as these positions do not accurately reflect the mounting relationship to the rest of the engine assembly. Similarly, the side of the engine block does not provide the necessary direct assessment of flywheel face variations.