Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance - Gaging Plastic Method

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Envoy XL and 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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.

Remove the bearing cap, bearing half and bolts.

Fig 1: Removing Bearing Cap, Bearing Half And Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the gaging plastic onto the connecting rod bearing journal. Install the gaging plastic the full width of the journal.

Fig 2: Installing Gaging Plastic Onto Connecting Rod Bearing Journal
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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 a final pass to 75 degrees using the J 36660-A .
  Refer to PISTON, CONNECTING ROD, AND BEARING INSTALLATION .
Remove the bearing cap, bearing, and bolts.

Fig 3: Removing Bearing Cap, Bearing, And Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Measure the gaging plastic at its widest area using the scale supplied with the plastic gaging kit.
The connecting rod bearing clearance should be 0.023-0.076 mm (0.0009-0.003 in).

Fig 4: Measuring Gaging Plastic At Crankshaft Widest Area
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.