Connecting Rod: Testing and Inspection

Connecting Rod, Measuring Radial Clearance

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Plastigage(R)

Procedure

• Marked the used bearing for installation later, but not on the running surface.

• Replace bearing shells worn down to the base layer.

- Remove connecting rod bearing cap. Clean the bearing cap and journal.

- Place the Plastigage(R) over the entire width of the bearing journal or into the bearing shells.

- Position the connecting rod bearing cap and tighten it to 30 Nm; do not turn the crankshaft.

- Reinstall connecting rod cover.

- Compare width of Plastigage(R) with calibrated scale.

Radial clearance:

• New: 0.015 to 0.062 mm

• Wear limit: 0.12 mm

- Replace connecting rod bolts.