Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance - Gaging Plastic Method

Important:  Connecting rod bearings are a precision insert type. Connecting rods are of a powdered metal design and cannot be shimmed or filed for bearing fit. If clearances are found to be excessive, a new bearing and/or connecting rod are required.

Do not rotate the crankshaft while gauging plastic is between the crankshaft journal and the bearing surface.

1. Remove the bearing cap, bearing half and bolts.
   Fig 1: Removing Bearing Cap, Bearing Half And Bolts

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
2. Install the gaging plastic onto the connecting rod bearing journal. Install the gauging plastic the full width of the journal.
   Fig 2: Installing Gaging Plastic Onto Connecting Rod Bearing Journal

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
   NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE .
3. Install the bearing cap, bearing, and bolts.

   Tighten 

   1. 3.1. Tighten the connecting rod bolts first pass to 20 N.m (15 lb ft).
   2. 3.2. Tighten the connecting rod bolts final pass to 60 degrees using the J 36660-A  .
4. Remove the bearing cap, bearing, and bolts.
   Fig 3: View Of Bearing Cap, Bearing, And Bolts

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. Measure the gaging plastic at its widest area using the scale supplied with the plastic gauging kit. Refer to ENGINE MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS - LS1  or ENGINE MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS - LS6 .
   Fig 4: Measuring Gaging Plastic

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.