Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection

Special Tools 

EN-45059  Torque Angle Sensor Kit

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

1. Remove the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pan Removal .
Fig 1: Connecting Rod Bearing Cap
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
Fig 2: Marking Position On Connecting Rod Bearing Cap
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
2. Remove the connecting rod bearing cap (1).
   1. Mark the installation position (1) of the connecting rod bearing cap.
   2. Remove the 2 bolts.
   3. Degrease the connecting rod bearing cap and wet the connecting rod bearing clip with engine oil.
NOTE:

Do not rotate the crankshaft.

3. Lay on plastigage. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers .

   Lay plastigage (flexible plastic thread) over the entire width of the connecting rod bearing journal.

4. Install the connecting rod bearing cap.
CAUTION:

Refer to Fastener Caution

5. Tighten the 2 bolts in three passes using the EN-45059  sensor kit :
   1. First pass tighten to 35 N.m (26 lb ft).
   2. Second pass tighten to an additional 45°
   3. Third pass tighten to an additional 15°
Fig 3: Connecting Rod Bearing Cap
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
6. Remove the 2 bolts.
7. Remove the connecting rod bearing cap (1).
Fig 4: Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Play Using Measuring Scale
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
NOTE:

When reading the value, do not confuse millimeters and inches on the measuring scale (1).

8. Measure the connecting rod bearing play.
   • Compare the width of the flattened plastic thread with the measuring scale.
   • Permissible connecting rod bearing play: 0.019-0.071 mm (0.0007-0.0028 in).
NOTE:

Check markings on parts.

9. Install the connecting rod bearing cap.
   • Wet the connecting rod bearing journal and con-rod bearing clips with engine oil.
   • Renew the bolts.
10. Tighten the 2 bolts in three passes using the EN-45059  sensor kit :
    1. First pass tighten to 35 N.m (26 lb ft)
    2. Second pass tighten to an additional 45°
    3. Third pass tighten to an additional 15°
11. Install the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pan Installation .