Connecting Rod And Bearing Fitting: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fit all connecting rods on one bank until complete.

The bearing caps are not interchangeable and should be marked at removal to ensure correct assembly.

CAUTION: Do not use a punch to mark rods as rod damage may occur.

CAUTION: Care must be taken not to damage the fractured rod and cap joint face surfaces as engine damage may occur.

The bearing shells must be installed with the tangs inserted into the machined grooves in the rods and caps. Also, assure that the hole in upper bearing half aligns with oil squirt hole in rod. Install cap with the tangs on the same side as the rod.

CAUTION: Assure that hole in upper bearing half aligns with hole in connecting rod as engine damage may occur.

Limits of taper on any crankshaft journals should be held to 0.015 mm (0.0006 in.). Limits of out-of-round on any crankshaft journal should be held to 0.010 mm (0.0004 in.). Bearings are available 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) and 0.250 mm (0.010 in.) undersize. Install the bearings in pairs. Do not use a new bearing half with an old bearing half. Do not file the rods or bearing caps.

Fig 1: Checking Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance-Typical

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

For measuring Main Bearing Clearance and Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance use plastigage. See Fig 1. For more information on using plastigage (Refer to ENGINE - STANDARD PROCEDURE) . Refer to SPECIFICATIONS for bearing clearance specifications.