While doing some pulley work on my 496 I noticed that I can can push and pull my ATI damper in and out aprox. 1/8th of an inch.The damper is tight and the crank bolt moves with the damper.I think I'm moving the whole crank back and forth!
Engine has about 2000 miles on it and runs fine.Is this the beginning of the end for my bottom end :confused:

Sounds like you wiped out your main thrust bearing. Time to tear down the bottom end. Probably didnt have enough endplay when assembled.

It does sound like a thrust bearing failure. Do a search on this in this and the engine forum to find the reasons this can happen. Very often the trans or clutch is to blame.

And you do need to fix it. The forward movement of the crank can damage the rings (probably has already), pistons, rods, cam, and distributor gear. The crank will likely need welding and re-grinding, mine did, anyway.

MAN! This rat motor is trying my patience.....seems its always something.Oh well,****'in and moan'in ain't gonna get it fixed.Time to remove the hood and get this party started graemlins/angry.gif