Connecting Rod: Service and Repair

Connecting Rod Installation

CAUTION: To fit the connecting rod cap nuts with the cylinder head in place, the spark plugs must be removed beforehand.

1. The connecting rod bolts and nuts utilize the plastic region tightening method. The bolts must therefore be checked for stretching before reuse. To check a bolt for stretching, screw the nut down the entire length of the thread by hand. Unless the nut turns smoothly all the way, the bolt's threaded section is stretched and the bolt must be replaced.
2. Before fitting the nuts, apply engine oil to their threads and seating surfaces.
3. Fit the nuts onto the bolts and turn them until they are finger-tight. After this, the nuts must be tightened alternately to ensure correct fitting of the cap.
4. Tighten the nuts to a torque of 20 Nm (15 ft. lbs.).
5. Make a paint mark on the top of each nut as shown.
6. Make paint marks on the bolts 90 - 100° clockwise from the paint marks on the nuts.
7. Turn the nuts until their paint marks are aligned with the paint marks on the bolts.

CAUTION:
- If the nuts are turned by less than 90°, the cap may not be held on with sufficient strength.
- If the nuts are turned by more than 100°, loosen them completely and carry out the tightening procedure again.