Piston, Connecting Rod, And Bearings (Unit Repair): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install connecting rod bearings. Use proper size bearings.
1. 1.1 Install bearing inserts into connecting rod and connecting rod cap.
2. 1.2 Lubricate connecting rod bearings with clean engine oil.
  
  Fig 1: Installing Connecting Rod Bearings
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install Connecting Rod Guide J41742-SAT2 into connecting rod bolt holes This protects the crankshaft journal during piston and connecting rod installation.
Install piston and connecting rod into cylinder.
1. 3.1 Stagger each piston ring end gap equally around piston.
2. 3.2 Lubricate piston and piston rings with clean engine oil.
3. 3.3 Install Piston Ring Compressor J43953 over piston. Do not disturb piston ring end gap location.
4. 3.4 Piston must be installed so that arrow on top of piston faces front of engine.
5. 3.5 Place piston in its matching bore.
6. 3.6 Push piston into its bore with a hammer handle. Guide connecting rod to connecting rod journal while tapping piston into place.
7. 3.7 Hold J43953 against engine block until all rings have entered cylinder bore.
8. 3.8 Remove connecting rod guides from connecting rod bolt holes.
IMPORTANT: Ensure that connecting rod cap is properly oriented on connecting rod.
Install connecting rod cap.
NOTE: Always use new bolts.
Install connecting rod bolts.
Torque:

Connecting Rod Bolts: 25 N.m (18 ft-lbs) + 100°
Install remaining connecting piston and rod assemblies.

Fig 2: Installing Connecting Rod Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Measure connecting rod side clearance with a feeler gauge.
Connecting Rod Side

Clearance: 0.070 - 0.370 mm (0.0027 - 0.0145 in.)

Fig 3: Measuring Connecting Rod Side Clearance
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.