New Connecting Rod, Separating

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New connecting rods may not be separated at the location where they should be. If the connecting rod bearing cap cannot be removed by hand, proceed as follows:

-- Mark which cylinder the connecting rod belongs to.

-- Lightly clamp the connecting rod in a vise equipped with aluminum protective jaw pads.

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

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE:

Only clamp the connecting rod lightly to avoid damaging it.

Clamp the connecting rod below the dotted line.

-- Loosen both bolts -arrows- about 5 turns.

-- Carefully tap against the connecting rod bearing cap in the -direction of the arrow- with a plastic mallet until the cap is loose.

Fig 2: Carefully Taping Against Connecting Rod Bearing Cap

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.