Crankshaft and Connecting Rod Bearing Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: The crankshaft and connecting rod bearings should be inspected only to determine what kind of damage or failure has occurred. Always install NEW bearings once the bearings have been removed.

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

Fig 1: Identifying Crankshaft Bearing Craters Or Pockets

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the bearings for excessive scoring or discoloration.
Inspect the bearings for dirt or debris embedded into the bearing material.

Fig 2: Identifying Connecting Rod Bearing Scoring Or Discoloration

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the bearings for improper seating indicated by bright, polished sections of the bearings.

Fig 3: Crankshaft Bearing Polished Sections (Improper Seating)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.