Connecting Rod Inspection

CONNECTING ROD INSPECTION
Connecting Rod Cleaning

Caution:
^ Do not use a caustic cleaning solution or damage to the connecting rods may occur.

Note:
^ If the connecting rod large end is mechanically split or cracked to produce a unique parting face, a locking joint is produced. Parts are not interchangeable.





1. Mark and separate the parts and clean with solvent. Clean the oil passages.

Connecting Rod Inspection





1. Measure the bearing bore in two directions. The difference is the connecting rod bore out-of-round. Verify the out-of-round is within specification.





2. Measure the bushing bore diameter of the connecting rod. Verify the diameter is within specification.
3. Measure the connecting rod bend on a suitable alignment fixture. Follow the instructions of the fixture manufacturer. Verify the bend measurement is within specification.





4. Measure the connecting rod twist on a suitable alignment fixture. Follow the instructions of the fixture manufacturer. Verify the measurement is within specification.

Connecting Rod Side Clearance Inspection





1. Measure the clearance between the connecting rod and the piston. Verify the measurement is within specification.

Connecting Rod Oil Clearance Inspection





1. Position a piece of Plastigage across the bearing surface.

Note:
^ The crankshaft connecting rod journals must be within specification to check the connecting rod bearing journal clearance.

2. Install and tighten to specification, then remove the connecting rod bearing cap.

Note:
^ Do not turn the crankshaft during this step.





3. Measure the Plastigage to get the connecting rod bearing journal clearance. The Plastigage should be smooth and flat. A changing width indicates a tapered or damaged crankshaft main bearing or connecting rod.