Just curious, I saw a couple Craigslist posts and they indicated the vehicle had the "Crankshaft Problem" but didn't indicate what it was. I haven't talked to the guys yet. Are there issues with the cranks I need to be aware of, or just the usual leaks?

 

I am not aware of any documented mechanical malfunction. However, they are known for CPS "crank position sensor" failure.
Cost. $80 - $90 bucks, an hour or so of your time.

 

Same here.... Outside of that you have possibility for same issues as any other... Wear being the biggest

 

unless someone had told him the bearings in the lower are junk, that could translate as a crankshaft problem

 

Yeah, those are good suggestions. Could also be a CPS too (or unhooked CPS to mask a deeper problem).

Thanks

 

if its a d2 put a scanner on it and see if you read any rpms, if no then it a bad sensor

 

If the crank sensor is dead or disconnected the engine will not run and there is no backup or limp home mode. The crankshaft itself is very strong, so I'm guessing it may be the crank sensor, and the only pain in the rear task is disconnecting the plug behind the left cylinder head.