Connecting Rod Measurement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Do not use a rag or shop towl to dry connecting rod mating surface.

Clean connecting rods in solvent and dry with compressed air.
Inspect connecting rods for the following:
- Signs of being twisted, bent, nicked, or cracked.
- Scratches or abrasion on the rod bearing seating surface.
If connecting rod bores contain minor scratches or abrasions, clean the bores in a circular direction with a light emery paper. DO NOT scrape the rod or rod cap.
If the beam of the rod is scratched or has other damage replace the connecting rod.
Measure piston pin to connecting rod bore using the following procedure:
1. 5.1 Using an outside micrometer, take two measurements of the piston pin in the area of the connecting rod contact.
2. 5.2 Using an inside micrometer, measure the connecting rod piston pin bore.
3. 5.3 Subtract the piston pin diameter from the piston pin bore diameter.
4. 5.4 The clearance should not be more than 0.021 mm (0.0008 in.).
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Connecting Rod
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. 5.5 If there is excessive clearance, replace piston pin.
6. 5.6 If there is still excessive clearance, replace connecting rod.