Checking axial (thrust) clearance on 1.6 TD crankshaft

[captainpartytime]

I am currently rebuilding a 1.6 ECO diesel motor (1V) for my diesel westfalia vanagon. I've never rebuilt a motor so I have a few questions:
I'm trying to install the crankshaft and check the axial clearance. My plan is to use two feeler gauges on the outermost bearing journals and split the difference between the two gauges so I know the crankshaft is centered. I figured as long as the two feeler gauges don't add up to the max. clearance then I should be good. Where is the ideal location for the crankshaft? In the center of the bearings or should it be favored to one side (tranny or pulley)?

Are plastigages necessary on every bearing surface or can I just do the outside bearing and assume the others are the same? Is it necessary to check the radial clearance on the crankshaft with plastigages? I'm using ARP main studs so I'm assuming it won't hurt to torque them down and then unscrew, check plastigage, and then retorque? Are plastigages necessary on the rod bearings or can I just torque then down to ARP bolt specs?

[captainpartytime]

Plastigauge on each bearing surface is a good idea. You'll find that errant manufactured defect in one of the bearings. Granted, the bearings are almost always within spec, but it's a good opportunity to be both thankful and irritated if you find one that isn't. FWIW, I once got three sets IN A ROW of German bearings that had one out of spec bearing.

I'm assuming the same is true for the rod bearings?