Connecting Rods, Checking Radial Clearance: Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
-- Remove the connecting rod bearing cap. Clean the bearing cap and journal.
-- Place the Plastigage® over the entire width of the bearing journal or into the bearing shells.
-- Install the connecting rod bearing cap and tighten nit to 30 Nm without any additional turns. Do not turn the crankshaft while doing this.
-- Install the connecting rod bearing cap.
-- Compare width of Plastigage® with calibrated scale.
Radial clearance:
- Wear limit: 0.08 mm.
-- Replace connecting rod bolts.