Dodge R1500 1999 Service Manual page 690

Pry crankshaft forward and note reading. Crankshaft end play must be
within specification. If end play is not within specification, check
for faulty thrust bearing installation or worn crankshaft. Some
applications offer oversized thrust bearings.
Feeler Gauge Method
Crankshaft end play can be checked using feeler gauge. Pry
crankshaft rearward. Pry crankshaft forward. Using feeler gauge,
measure clearance between crankshaft and thrust bearing surface. See
Fig. 22.
Fig. 22: Checking Crankshaft End Play - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only
Crankshaft end play must be within specification. If end
play is not within specification, check for faulty thrust bearing
installation or worn crankshaft. Some applications offer oversized
thrust bearings.