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Automotive crankshafts are subjected to fluctuating torques due to periodic explosions in the cylinders. Accurate three dimensional finite element modeling is often time consuming. The present research aims to reduce the pre-processing efforts by developing parametric software. A three-dimensional parametric finite element model of crankshaft is developed using brick and wedge elements. Crankshaft main journal bearings are modeled as linear springs and dashpots. The piston and reciprocating masses are lumped at the ends of the crank pins. Viscous damper as well as shaft material damping has been modeled. Results from the three-dimensional analysis have been compared with those obtained using beam element models to assess the capabilities and limitations of such simplified models. It has been demonstrated that the simplified beam element models result in significant errors and 3-dimensional finite element analysis is essential for accurate predictions.