Plastigage Method

Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection (Plastigage Method)




1. Remove the oil pan. Refer to 1401312 - Oil Pan, Remove and Install.
2. Remove the con-rod bearing cap.

* Mark the installation position (1) of the con-rod bearing cap.
* Unscrew the 2 bolts.
* Degrease the con-rod bearing cap and wet the con-rod bearing clip with engine oil.

Note: Do not rotate the crankshaft.

Note: Plastigage is available via the "Opel/Vauxhall Workshop Equipment" catalogue.

3. Lay on Plastigage.
Lay Plastigage (flexible plastic thread) over the entire width of the con-rod bearing journal.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).

4. Install the con-rod bearing cap. Tighten the 2 bolts to 35 Nm+45°+15°.
5. Remove the con-rod bearing cap.
Unscrew the 2 bolts.





Note: When reading the value, do not confuse millimeters and inches on the measuring scale.

6. Measure the con-rod bearing play.

* Compare the width of the flattened plastic thread with the measuring scale.
* Permissible con-rod bearing play: 0.019-0.071 mm.

Note: Check markings on parts.

7. Install the con-rod bearing cap.

* Wet the con-rod bearing journal and con-rod bearing clips with engine oil.
* Renew the bolts and tighten to 35 Nm+45°+15°.

8. Install the oil pan. Refer to 1401312 - Oil Pan, Remove and Install.