Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance - Gaging Plastic Method
- 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 is required.
- Do not rotate the crankshaft while gaging plastic is between the crankshaft journal and the bearing surface.
- Remove the bearing cap, bearing half and bolts. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod and Bearing Removal .
- Install the gaging plastic onto the connecting rod bearing journal. Install the gaging plastic the full width of the journal.
- Install the bearing cap, bearing half and bolts. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod and Bearing Installation .
- Remove the bearing cap, bearing half and bolts. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod and Bearing Removal .
- Using the scale supplied with the plastic gaging kit, measure the gaging plastic at its widest area. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO LMF VIN 4) , Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO L20 VIN A) , Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO LC8 VIN B) , Engine Mechanical Specifications (RPO L96 VIN G) .
IMPORTANT: