Astra J 1.4T revs drop with clutch depressed

[832ark]

My bro-in-law just bought a low mileage 2013 Astra GTC 1.4T and the revs drop around 200rpm when the clutch is depressed and return to normal (850rpm ish) when released. This kind of made me wonder about crankshaft end float and a bit of Googling suggests that this engine does have issues with excessive end float. Am I barking up the right tree?

[tobytronicstereophonic]

Yes, excessive crankshaft end-float from worn thrust washers is a primary cause of the fault you describe. The four engines I've worked on with this fault all had required a new crankshaft: Datsun 100A, Citroen AX, Hillman Hunter and a Citroen Xantia 1.9D. The best way is probably a low mileage used engine?
If you observe the crankshaft pulley, engine running, you will probably see the excessive end-float as you press and release the clutch pedal.
The car may well run for ages as it is, though.
Good luck.

[tobytronicstereophonic]

I've done some research: the end-float seems to be around 8-10mm on the afflicted engines. Carefully pry the crank pulley back/forth and it will be obvious. The pulley has a bonded harmonic damper, so take care not to un-bond it.
Looking at the numbers affected, you can bet that your engine will have too much end-float:

https://www.astraownersnetwork.co.uk/threads/endfl...

Sorry.

Cars with as few as 20k miles are needing replacement engines. GM should be sorting this, but with their Insignia 2.0 CDTI oil pickup pipe seal Debacle, as one example, they won't. Try a small claims court action. It is a very straightforward process and can work a treat?
Modern cars should not be suffering repair bills which are so high that a five year old car is often beyond economic repair...