Piston and Connecting Rod Assemble

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra and 2010 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Retaining Clip In Pin Bore Groove

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Install the retainer. The retainer should be seated in the groove of the pin bore.

Fig 2: Locating Mark On Top Of Piston & Connecting Rod Tab

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The mark (1) on the top of the piston and the large set of tabs (2) on the side of the connecting rod should be facing the same direction.

Fig 3: Piston Pin, Piston & Connecting Rod

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Install the piston pin to the piston and connecting rod.
Install the retainers. The retainers should be seated in the groove of the pin bore.

Fig 4: Removing/Installing Piston Rings

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IMPORTANT: When installing piston rings, use a ring expander plier type tool. Do not roll the rings into the grooves of the piston. Use caution and care to expand the rings only slightly larger than the outside diameter (OD) of the piston.

Using piston ring pliers, install the piston rings onto the piston. The top compression ring has a shinier finish than the lower compression ring. The dimple or mark on the piston ring should face the top of the piston. If no dimple or mark can be found on the top compression ring, it may be installed in either direction.
Position the oil control ring end gaps 180 degrees opposite each other.
Position the compression ring end gaps 180 degrees opposite each other.

Fig 5: View Of Piston, Connecting Rod & Bearing Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the connecting rod bearings to the rod and cap.