Separating Parts

Important: Many internal engine components will develop specific wear patterns on their friction surfaces.

When disassembling the engine, internal components MUST be separated, marked, or organized in a way to ensure reinstallation to their original location and position.
Separate, mark, or organize the following components:
- Piston and the piston pin
- Piston to the specific cylinder bore
- Piston rings to the piston
- Connecting rod to the crankshaft journal
- Connecting rod to the bearing cap
A paint stick or etching/engraving type tool are recommended. Stamping the connecting rod or cap near the bearing bore may affect component geometry.
- Crankshaft main and connecting rod bearings
- Camshaft and valve lifters
- Valve lifters, guides, pushrods, pivot supports and rocker arms
- Valve to the valve guide
- Valve spring and shim to the cylinder head location
- Engine block main bearing cap location and direction
- Oil pump drive and driven gears

Installation Precautions

Important: Follow the engine service information below. This information is important in order to prevent damage and in contributing to reliable engine performance.

In order to avoid damage to the engine oil pan, use a block of wood between the jack and the oil pan. Ensure that the block of wood extends past the complete width of the oil pan. Due to the small clearance between the oil pan and the oil pump screen, jacking against the oil pan may cause the oil pan to bend against the pump screen. This condition results in a damaged oil pick-up unit.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

When working on the engine, remember that the 12-volt electrical system is capable of causing short circuits. When performing any work where electrical terminals may possibly be grounded, disconnect the ground cable of the battery at the battery.
Any time you remove the air cleaner, cover the intake opening. This procedure protects against the accidental entrance of foreign material. Foreign material may follow the intake passage into the cylinder. This condition causes extensive damage when you start the engine.
In the mechanical procedures described, generally no references will be made to the removal of optional equipment such as the power steering pump, the air conditioning compressor, etc.
If you need to remove any optional equipment in order to perform other service, refer to specific information.