49. Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Installation

- TOOLS REQUIRED
- SA9140NE Torque Angle Meter
- J43953 Piston Ring Compressor
- J-43960 Connecting Rod Guides





1. Install connecting rod bearings. Use proper size bearings.
a. Install bearing inserts into connecting rod and connecting rod cap.
b. Lubricate connecting rod bearings with engine oil.
2. Install connecting rod guide J-41742 into connecting rod bolt holes This protects the crankshaft journal during piston and connecting rod installation.
3. Install piston and connecting rod into cylinder.
a. Stagger each piston ring end gap equally around piston.
b. Lubricate piston and piston rings with engine oil.
c. Install J-43953 over piston. Do not disturb piston ring end gap location.
d. Piston must be installed so that arrow on top of piston faces front of engine.
e. Place piston in its matching bore.
f. Push piston into its bore with a hammer handle. Guide connecting rod to connecting rod journal while tapping piston into place.
g. Hold J-43953 against engine block until all rings have entered cylinder bore.
h. Remove connecting rod guides from connecting rod bolt holes.

IMPORTANT: Ensure that connecting rod cap is properly oriented on connecting rod.





4. Install connecting rod cap.
5. Install connecting rod bolts. Always use new bolts.
- Torque: 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.) + 70 Degrees
6. Install remaining connecting piston and rod assembles.





7. Measure connecting rod side clearance with a feeler gauge.
Rod side clearance: 0.070 - 0.370 mm (0.0027 - 0.0145 inch).