Connecting Rod Thrust Clearance

MEASURE CONNECTING ROD THRUST
CLEARANCE
Using a dial gauge, measure the thrust clearance.
Standard clearance: 0.16-0.26mm (0.063 - 0.0102 in.)
Maximum clearance: 0.3mm (0.012 in.)
If clearance is greater than maximum, replace the connecting rod and/or crankshaft.






1. MEASURE CONNECTING ROD OIL CLEARANCE
(a) Using a punch or numbering stamp, mark connecting rods and caps to ensure correct reassembly.
(b) Remove the rod cap nuts.






(c) Using a plastic-faced hammer, tap the rod bolts lightly and lift off the rod cap.

HINT: Keep the bearing inserted in the cap.

(d) Clean the bearing and crankshaft pins.
(e) Inspect each bearing for pitting and radial scratches. If bearing are damaged. replace the bearings.






(f) Lay a strip of Plastigage across the crankshaft pin.






(g) Align the rod and cap marks and fit on the cap. Install and torque the cap nuts.
Torque: 69 N.m (700 kgf.cm, 51 ft.lbf)

HINT:
- Do not turn the crankshaft.
- Apply a light coat of engine oil on the nut threads and under the nut before installation.






(h) Remove the rod cap.
(i) Measure the Plastigage at its widest point.
Standard clearance:
0.025 - 0.055 mm (0.0010 - 0.0022 in.)
Maximum clearance: 0.10mm (0.0039 in.)
If the clearance is greater than maximum, replace the bearings and/or grind the crank pins.
Undersized bearing: U/S 0.25






(j) Clean any Plastigage from bearing and crankshaft pin.






HINT: If replacing a standard size bearing. replace with one having the same letter as marked on the bearing cap. There are 3 sizes of standard bearings supplied, marked A, B or C respectively.






2. PUSH OUT PISTON AND CONNECTING ROD ASSEMBLY
(a) Remove all the carbon from the top of the bore to the top of the cylinder.






(b) Cover the rod bolts with a short piece of hose to protect the crank pin from damage.
c) Push the piston and connecting rod assembly out through the top of the cylinder block.






(d) Arrange the piston and connecting rod caps in order.