Connecting Rod Bearing: Service and Repair

STANDARD PROCEDURE - CONNECTING ROD BEARING REPLACEMENT

Special Tools:










The connecting rod bearings must be replaced one-at-a-time in order to prevent the pistons from contacting the valves.

NOTE: If equipped with an automatic transmission, the engine must be removed from the vehicle.

1. If equipped with an automatic transmission, remove the engine from the vehicle Engine - Removal
2. Remove the spark plugs Spark Plug - Removal
3. Remove the oil pan and oil pump pick-up Oil Pump Pick-up - Removal






CAUTION: DO NOT use a number stamp or a punch to mark connecting rods or caps, as damage to connecting rods could occur

NOTE: Connecting rods and bearing caps are not interchangeable and should be marked before removing to ensure correct reassembly.

4. Mark connecting rod and bearing cap positions (1) using a permanent ink marker or scribe tool.






CAUTION: Replace only one connecting rod bearing at a time while all other connecting rod bearing caps remain properly tightened. If all connecting rod bearing caps are removed, crankshaft rotation will result in valve and/or piston damage.

CAUTION: Care must be taken not to damage the fractured rod and cap joint face surfaces, as engine damage may occur.

5. Remove the connecting rod cap bolts (2) and the connecting rod cap (1). Discard the cap bolts.
6. Install the Connecting Rod Guides (10281) (4) on the connecting rod.

CAUTION: Care must be taken not to nick crankshaft journals, as engine damage may occur.

7. Rotate the crankshaft away from the connecting rod and remove the bearing shell.
8. Install the replacement bearing shell on the connecting rod with the tang inserted into the machined groove in the rod. Lubricate the bearing surface with clean engine oil.
9. Rotate the crankshaft while guiding the connecting rod into position over the rod journal.

CAUTION: The connecting rod bolts must not be reused. Always replace the connecting rod bolts whenever they are loosened or removed.

10. Install the replacement bearing shell (3) on the connecting rod cap (1) with the tang inserted into the machined groove in the cap. Lubricate the bearing surface with clean engine oil.

NOTE: Do not lubricate the threads of the connecting rod cap bolts (2).

11. Install the connecting rod cap and bearing with the tang on the same side as the rod. Tighten the NEW connecting rod cap bolts (5) to 20 Nm (15 ft. lbs.) plus 40°.
12. If required, check the connecting rod side clearance Measuring Connecting Rod Side Clearance
13. Repeat the previous steps for each connecting rod bearing being replaced.





14. Install the oil pump pick-up and oil pan Oil Pump Pick-up - Installation.
15. Install the spark plugs and ignition coils Spark Plug - Installation
16. If removed, install the engine Engine - Installation
17. If removed, install the oil filter and fill the engine crankcase with the proper oil to the correct level Service and Repair
18. Connect the negative battery cable and tighten nut to 5 Nm (45 in. lbs.).
19. Fill the cooling system Service and Repair.
20. Start and run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. Check cooling system for correct fluid level Service and Repair