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Home >> Chevrolet >> 2002 >> Blazer 4D Utility, 4WD, Part Time >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1619 (Engine Mechanical - 4.8L, 5.3L & 6.0L) >> Repair Instructions >> Off-Vehicle Repair Instructions >> Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection >> Connecting Rod and Bearings

Connecting Rod and Bearings

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IMPORTANT: The powdered metal connecting rod and cap are machined for the proper clearances. The connecting rod and the cap must be used as an assembly with no repair or modifications to either mating surface.

Do not attempt to repair the connecting rod or the cap mating surfaces. If service is required, the connecting rod and the cap must be replaced as an assembly.

  1. Clean the connecting rod and the cap in solvent.
    IMPORTANT: Replace the connecting rod if the bolt hole threads are damaged. Do not attempt to repair the bolt hole threads of the connecting rod.
  2. Clean the connecting rod threaded bolts holes.
    CAUTION: Refer to SAFETY GLASSES CAUTION .
  3. Dry the connecting rod with compressed air.
    Fig 1: Connecting Rod & Bearings
    G02107035Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Inspect the connecting rod for the following:
    • Twisting
    • Nicks or gouging in the bearing bore
    • Damage to the bearing locating slots in the bearing bore
    • Proper fit of the connecting rod and the cap mating surfaces
    Fig 2: Twisted Connecting Rod
    G02107036Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Measure the connecting rod bearing bore for out-of-round.

    If the measurement exceeds 0.008 mm (0.0003 in), replace the connecting rod assembly.

    Fig 3: Connecting Rod
    G02107037Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for craters or pockets. Flattened sections on the bearing halves also indicate fatigue.
    Fig 4: Inspecting Connecting Rod Bearings For Craters Or Pockets
    G02107038Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for excessive scoring or discoloration.
  8. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for dirt or debris imbedded into the bearing material.
    Fig 5: Inspecting Connecting Rod Bearings For Excessive Scoring Or Discoloration
    G02107039Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for improper seating indicated by bright, polished sections of the bearing.
    Fig 6: Inspecting Connecting Rod Bearings For Improper Seating
    G02107040Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.