What, exactly, is crankwalk?

[97Tsi]

I've been hearing so much about DSM turboed motors getting crankwalk. Can any of you tell me what exactly crankwalk is? My talon is running fine but I'd just like to know what to look and/or listen. Any info is appreciated, thanks guys!

[Polygon]

A 'walking' crankshaft, or 'crankwalk' as its commonly referred to is a condition in which the crank inside your block suffers from excessive movement and causes crank angle sensor failure. This is also known as excessive thrust bearing play. While there are several theories about crankwalk, there is no rock hard evidence that points to the real cause of this problem. The movement can be from the crankshaft not fitting inside its bearings correctly, or oil squirters in your block clogging. While not bad for the crankshaft, the movement can place excessive or uneven loads on the bearings, causing premature failures, or crank angle sensor failure.

[97Tsi]

Does is present a distinct problem w/ your car or give off a distinct sound or anything like that? Or is it a problem you don't know you have until you take apart the motor to find out?

[Polygon]

Here are some signs that you have crankwalk.

1. Clutch weirdness, improper pedal pressure, strange disengage and engage points.
2. Ticking or strange noise from the pulley side of the engine when clutch is depressed.
3. Crank Angle Sensor errors ( check engine light ).
4. Difficulty shifting.
5. RPMS decreasing significantly when clutch pedal is depressed.
6. Clutch does not return or "sticks" to the floor after being depressed.

[97Tsi]

thanks polygon, that info might save me at a later date, appreciate it

[Polygon]

No problem, anytime.

[dampachi]

crankwalk is pretty rare. even though you always hear about it..it's just because it's such a terrible occurance everyone talks about it.

[Andydg]

Crankwalk really scares a lot of the DSM world.

[2Slow4U_Noob]

Is it possible that signs will worsen as time goes on or is it a case of either you got it or you don't. I got a talon and Ive had alot of clutch problems. The engage point on the clutch sometimes rises and when it does it starts slipping. The other day it got stuck to the floor, but when I took it in they said i needed a new master cylinder and needed to repair the clutch line. Should I be worried or is it just some clutch issues and nothing more?