Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Installation

Tools Required: 

• J 36660-A  Torque Angle Meter
• J 8037  Piston Ring Compressor
• J 41507  Connecting Rod Guide Assembly

1. Position the crankshaft so the connecting rod journal is opposite the piston and connecting rod assembly being installed. This will aid in the installation of the connecting rod assembly.
2. Lubricate the cylinder wall with engine oil.
3. Install the connecting rod bearing inserts.
4. Lubricate the connecting rod bearing insert surface with engine oil.
5. Install J 41507 to the connecting rod. Hand tighten the tool to the connecting rod.
Fig 1: Connecting Rod
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Install J 8037 to the piston.
   NOTE: Guide the lower connecting rod end carefully to avoid damaging the crankshaft journal.
7. Use J 8037 to compress the piston rings for installation of the piston and connecting rod assembly.
Fig 2: Compress The Piston Rings
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
8. Install the piston and connecting rod assembly into the engine.

   Important:  Ensure the arrow on top of the piston or the markings made during removal face towards the front of the engine or are in the same location as when removed.

9. Use J 4150710 pull the connecting rod into place.
10. Remove J 41507.
11. Install the connecting rod bearing cap.
12. Install the connecting rod bearing cap bolts.

    Tighten: 

    Tighten the connecting rod bearing cap bolts to 27 N.m (20 lb ft) + 50 degrees using J 36660-A 

13. Pry the connecting rod back and forth and check for binding. If necessary loosen and retighten the connecting rod bearing cap.
    Fig 3: Connecting Rod

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
14. Measure the connecting rod side clearance.
    Fig 4: Measure The Connecting Rod Side Clearance

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.