Connecting Rod and Bearings

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Piston, Connecting Rod And Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

NOTE:

The powdered metal connecting rod and cap are machined for proper clearances. The connecting rod and cap must be used as an assembly with no repair or modifications to either mating surface. Do not attempt to repair the rod or cap. If service is required, replace the rod and cap as an assembly.
Do not attempt to repair the bolt hole threads of the connecting rod.

Clean the connecting rod (105) and cap (103) in solvent.

WARNING:

Refer to Safety Glasses Warning .

Dry the components with compressed air.

Fig 2: Inspecting Connecting Rod For Damage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Inspect the connecting rod for the following conditions:
- Twisting (1)
- Proper fit of the connecting rod and cap mating surfaces (2)
- Nicks or gouges in the bearing bore (3)
- Damage to the bearing locating slots (4)

Fig 3: Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Bore

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Measure the connecting rod bearing bore for an out-of-round condition. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO L96 VIN G) .

Fig 4: Measuring Piston Pin Diameter

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

To determine piston pin-to-connecting rod bore clearance, use a micrometer and measure the piston pin OD.

Fig 5: Measuring Connecting Rod Pin Bore Inside Diameter

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

To determine the piston pin-to-connecting rod bore clearance, use a micrometer and measure the connecting rod pin bore (1) ID.
Subtract the piston pin OD measurement from the connecting rod pin bore ID measurement to determine pin-to-bore clearance. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO L96 VIN G) .

Fig 6: Inspecting Bearings For Craters Or Pockets

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Inspect the connecting rod bearings for craters or pockets. Flattened sections on the bearing halves indicate fatigue.

Fig 7: Inspecting Bearings For Scoring Or Discoloration

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Inspect the connecting rod bearings for excessive scoring or discoloration.
Inspect the connecting rod bearings for dirt or debris imbedded into the bearing material.

Fig 8: Inspecting Bearings For Improper Seating

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Inspect the connecting rod bearings for improper seating indicated by bright, polished sections of the bearing surface.
Measure the connecting rod bearings for excessive connecting rod bearing-to-crankshaft journal clearance. Refer to Crankshaft and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection .