Connecting Rod Final Assembly Procedure

Connecting Rod Final Assembly Procedure





1. Back the connecting rod away from the crankshaft in order to allow for lubricant application.
2. Coat the crankshaft connecting rod bearing journal and installed connecting rod bearings with GM crankshaft prelube GM P/N 1052367, (Canadian P/N 992869), or equivalent.
3. Guide the connecting rod onto the crankshaft connecting rod bearing journal.
4. Install the connecting rod end cap on its original connecting rod making sure the bearing lock tangs are aligned on the same side of the rod.





5. When properly installed, the connecting rod bearing cap notches should be paired, as shown, on the crankpin.





Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

Important: DO NOT reuse the old connecting rod bolts.

6. Lubricate the NEW connecting rod bolts with engine oil and install in the connecting rod.
^ Tighten the NEW connecting rod bolts to 30 Nm (22 ft. lbs.).

7. Loosen the connecting rod bolts until the torque reading is zero.
8. Re-tighten the connecting rod bolts.
8.1. First Pass
^ Tighten the connecting rod bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).
8.2. Final Pass
^ Tighten the connecting rod bolts an additional 110 degrees using the J 45059.





9. During and after installation, check to make sure each piston is positioned properly in the correct cylinder. The locating arrow on the top each piston (1) must be pointing toward the front of the engine.
10. Repeat these procedures for the piston/connecting rod assembly that is using the common crankshaft connecting rod journal.
11. Measure the connecting rod side clearance between the two connecting rods that share the common crankshaft connecting rod journal.
12. Compare the measurements with the engine mechanical specifications.
13. If the connecting rods do not provide the proper crankshaft side clearance inspect for the following conditions:
^ If the clearance is too tight, ensure the connecting rods are not binding and can slide parallel to the crankpin. Re-measure the connecting rod widths for the correct specified size. If the connecting rods are incorrectly sized, replace the connecting rods.
^ If the clearance is too loose, re-measure the connecting rod widths for the correct specified size. If the connecting rods are incorrectly sized, replace the connecting rods.

14. Repeat these procedures for the remaining piston/connecting rod assemblies using the J 39946 in order to rotate the crankshaft.