Connecting Rod Cleaning: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Pickup, 2007 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2007 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2007 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Using a suitable solvent, thoroughly clean the connecting rod and rod cap.
Mark each connecting rod and its corresponding rod cap for correct installation.

Fig 1: Checking Connecting Rod Pin Bore Diameter (With Specifications)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Measure the inside diameter of the piston pin bushing. Install a new connecting rod, if not within specification.

Fig 2: Checking Connecting Rod Bearing Bore Diameter (With Specifications)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable micrometer, measure the connecting rod bearing bore.
- Remove the connecting rod bearings from the connecting rod and the connecting rod cap. Install the connecting rod cap onto the connecting rod and tighten the bolts.
  - Tighten to 45 Nm (33 lb-ft).
- Further tighten the connecting rod cap bolts.
  - Tighten to 68 Nm (50 lb-ft).
- Measure and record the connecting rod bearing bore as indicated. Install new connecting rods if not within specification.

Fig 3: Checking Connecting Rod Bearing Bore Taper (With Specifications)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable micrometer, inspect the connecting rod bearing bore taper.
- Measure the bearing bore inside diameter near the large chamfer.
  - Measure the bearing bore inside diameter near the small chamfer.
  - The difference between the 2 readings is the bore taper. Install new connecting rods if not within specifications.