GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pan Replacement .
  2. Remove the oil pump. Refer to Oil Pump Drive Replacement .
  3. Important: Place match marks or numbers on the connecting rod and connecting rod caps Connecting rod caps must be assembled to their original connecting rod.

  4. Turn the crankshaft until the piston is at bottom dead center.
  5. Remove the connecting rod nuts.
  6. Remove the connecting rod cap and bearings. Keep the bearings with their original connecting rod and cap for reassemble.
  7. Wipe oil from the bearings and crankpins.
  8. Inspect the bearings. Refer to Main Bearing and Rod Bearing Selection Main Bearing and Rod Bearing Inspection.
  9. Inspect the crankshaft Crankshaft Cleaning and Inspection Crankshaft Clean and Inspect.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

  1. Coat the inside surfaces of the bearings with engine oil.
  2. Install the connecting rod cap and bearings.
  3. Install the connecting rod nuts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).

  5. Turn the nuts evenly an additional 75° using the J 36660-A .
  6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.


    Object Number: 35206  Size: SH
  7. Measure the connecting rod clearance using the following procedure:
  8. 4.1. Install all connecting rod bearings.
    4.2. Lightly tap each connecting rod parallel to the crankpin in order to make sure the connecting rods have clearance.
    4.3. Measure the side clearance between the connecting rod caps using a feeler gage, or dial indicator.
    4.4. The rod side clearance should be 0.18-0.44 mm (0.007-0.017 in).
  9. Install the oil pump. Refer to Oil Pan Replacement .
  10. Install the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pump Drive Replacement .