Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance - Gaging Plastic Method
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 GMC Savana 3500, 2019 GMC Savana 2500, 2019 Chevrolet Express 3500, and 2019 Chevrolet Express 2500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- NOTE:
- 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 (LV1) .