Piston & Connecting Rod Assemble

Important:  Install the piston onto the connecting rod with the arrow oriented toward the front of the engine.

1. Assemble the connecting rod and the piston.
   Fig 1: Connecting Rod & Piston

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
   NOTE: Install the piston pin retainers correctly in the retaining groove during assembly in order to avoid engine damage.
2. Use the following procedure in order to assemble the piston pin and the retainer:
   1. 2.1. Coat the piston pin with oil.
   2. 2.2. Install one side of one piston pin retainer into the retaining groove using the J 43654.  Rotate the retainer until it is fully seated in the groove, use insertion tool.
   3. 2.3. Install the connecting rod and the piston pin.

      Push the piston pin until it bottoms in the previously installed retainer.

   4. 2.4. Install the second piston pin retainer, using the J 43654. 
   5. 2.5. Ensure that the piston moves freely.
   Fig 2: Installing Piston Pin Retainer

   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.
3. Install the following components of the oil control ring assembly (bottom ring):
   1. 3.1. The expander
   2. 3.2. The lower oil control ring
   3. 3.3. The upper control ring
4. Install the lower compression ring (second ring). Place the manufacturer's mark facing up.
5. Install the upper compression ring (top ring).
   Fig 3: Installing Piston Rings

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.