Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance - Gaging Plastic Method
- 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. See steps above in removal procedure.
- Install the gaging plastic (1) onto the connecting rod bearing journal. Install the gaging plastic the full width of the journal.
- Install the bearing cap, bearing half, and bolts. See steps below in installation procedure.
Remove the bearing cap, bearing half, and bolts. See steps above in removal procedure.
Using the scale (1) supplied with the plastic gaging kit, measure the gaging plastic at its widest area. Engine Mechanical Specifications (L84) , or Engine Mechanical Specifications (L87)
- Service components as required, if a connecting rod is out of specifications.
- Remove all components installed for the measurement procedures. Remove the gaging plastic residue, and prepare for the assemble procedure.
- CAUTION:
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
CAUTION:Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE:- The connecting rod and cap must be assembled with the mating surfaces properly aligned.
- If re-using connecting rods, DO NOT re-use connecting rod bolts. During an installation procedure, the new connecting rod bolts can be re-tightened a maximum of 3 times.
Install the bearing (3) and bearing cap (2).
- Install NEW bolts (1) and tighten, using the EN-45059 Angle Meter. Fastener Specifications