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Home >> GMC >> 2003 >> Safari Van Cargo, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 414 (Engine Mechanical - 4.8L, 5.3L, & 6.0L (Unit Repair)) >> Repair Instructions >> Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection >> Connecting Rod and Bearings

Connecting Rod and Bearings

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IMPORTANT: The powdered metal connecting rod and cap are machined for the proper clearances. The connecting rod and the cap must be used as an assembly with no repair or modifications to either mating surface.

Do not attempt to repair the connecting rod or the cap mating surfaces. If service is required, the connecting rod and the cap must be replaced as an assembly.

  1. Clean the connecting rod and the cap in solvent.
    IMPORTANT: Replace the connecting rod if the bolt hole threads are damaged. Do not attempt to repair the bolt hole threads of the connecting rod.
  2. Clean the connecting rod threaded bolts holes.
    CAUTION: Refer to SAFETY GLASSES CAUTION in Cautions and Notices.
  3. Dry the connecting rod with compressed air.
    Fig 1: Piston, Connecting Rod & Bearings
    G01674723Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Inspect the connecting rod for the following:
    • Twisting
    • Nicks or gouging in the bearing bore
    • Damage to the bearing locating slots in the bearing bore
    • Proper fit of the connecting rod and the cap mating surfaces
    Fig 2: Twisted Connecting Rod
    G01674724Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Measure the connecting rod bearing bore for out-of-round.

    If the measurement exceeds 0.008 mm (0.0003 in), replace the connecting rod assembly.

    Fig 3: Connecting Rod Removed
    G01674725Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for craters or pockets. Flattened sections on the bearing halves also indicate fatigue.
    Fig 4: Connecting Rod Bearing W/Craters
    G01674726Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for excessive scoring or discoloration.
  8. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for dirt or debris imbedded into the bearing material.
    Fig 5: Connecting Rod Bearing W/Excessive Scoring, Dirt & Debris
    G01674727Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Inspect the connecting rod bearings for improper seating indicated by bright, polished sections of the bearing.
    Fig 6: Connecting Rod Bearing W/Polished Sections
    G01674728Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.