New Connecting Rod, Separating

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

New connecting rods may not be separated at the location where they should be. If it is difficult to remove the connecting rod bearing cap by hand, do the following:

-- Mark which cylinder the connecting rod belongs too.

-- Clamp the connecting rod in a vice, which has protective jaw covers to prevent damage.

Fig 1: Identifying Connecting Rod Clamped In Vise Equipped With Aluminum Protective Pads

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE:

Clamp the connecting rod below the dotted line.

-- Loosen the bolts -arrows- approximately 5 turns.

-- Carefully tap the connecting rod bearing cap using a plastic hammer -arrow- until it comes loose.

Fig 2: Identifying Connecting Rod Bearing Cap

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.