Piston and Connecting Rod Assemble

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Firebird and 2002 Chevrolet Camaro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Coat the piston pin with oil.
Install one piston pin retainer into the retaining groove.
Install the connecting rod and piston pin. The connecting rod can be installed in either direction. Push the piston pin in until it bottoms against the installed piston pin retainer.
Install the second piston pin retainer.
Ensure the piston pin moves freely.

Fig 1: Installing Piston And Connecting Rod Assembly
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Use a piston ring expander to install the piston rings. The rings may be damaged if expanded more than necessary.

Important: To provide an effective compression seal, the ring gaps must be staggered.
Install the following components of the bottom ring assembly (oil control ring):
1. 6.1. The expander
2. 6.2. The lower oil control ring
3. 6.3. The upper oil control ring
Fig 2: Installing Bottom Ring Assembly
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the middle ring (compression ring) with the manufacturer's mark facing up.
Install the top ring (compression ring).

Fig 3: Installing Top Ring (Compression Ring)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.