LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> GMC >> 2003 >> Safari Van Cargo, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1266 (Engine Mechanical - 3.8L (Unit Repair)) >> Repair Instructions >> Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Removal

Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required 

  1. Mark the connecting rod cap and the connecting rod for proper installation.
    NOTE: If there is a pronounced ridge at the top of the piston travel, the ridge must be removed with a ridge reamer before the piston and connecting rod assembly are removed. Applying force may break the piston rings or damage the piston.
  2. Use the J 24270  to remove the cylinder bore ring ridge.
    1. 2.1. Turn the crankshaft until the piston is at the bottom of the stroke.
    2. 2.2. Cover the piston with a cloth.
    3. 2.3. Remove the cylinder ring ridge.
    4. 2.4. Turn the crankshaft until the piston is at the top of the stroke.
    5. 2.5. Remove the cloth.
    6. 2.6. Remove the metal shavings from the cylinder and piston.
      Fig 1: Cylinder Bore Ring Ridge Using J 24270
      G01703565Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. Remove the connecting rod bolts.
  4. Remove the connecting rod cap.
    Fig 2: Connecting Rod Cap & Bolts
    G01703566Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Install J 41507  to the connecting rod. Hand tighten the tool to the connecting rod.
  6. Use hand pressure on J 41507  to push the connecting rod towards the top of the cylinder.

    Important:  Mark the piston with the number of the cylinder from which it was removed. Mark the piston as to what is the front for proper reassembly.

  7. Remove the piston, the connecting rod, and the connecting rod bearings.
    Fig 3: Piston, Connecting Rod & Bearings Using J 41507
    G01703567Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.