GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2009 🢒 Vibe - AWD 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 2.4L (LAX) 🢒 Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Installation

    Object Number: 2018244 Size: SH
  1. Install connecting rod bearing.

    2. Note: Do not apply engine oil to the bearings or the contact surfaces.

  2. Align the bearing claw with the groove on the connecting rod or connecting cap.

    3. Note: The connecting rod cap bolts are tightened in 2 progressive steps.

  3. Install piston sub-assembly with connecting rod.
  4. Apply engine oil to the cylinder walls, the pistons, and the surfaces of connecting rod bearings.

    5. Object Number: 2018233 Size: MH
  5. Check the position of the piston ring ends (1, 2).

    6. Object Number: 2018246 Size: SH

    Note: Match the numbered connecting rod cap with the connecting rod.

  6. Using a piston ring compressor, push the correctly numbered piston and connecting rod assemblies into each cylinder with the front mark (1, 2) of the piston facing forward.

    7. Object Number: 2018247 Size: SH
  7. Check that the protrusion on the connecting rod cap is facing in the correct direction.
  8. Apply a light coat of engine oil to the threads and under the heads of the connecting rod cap bolts.

    9. Note: The connecting cap bolts should be tightened in 2 progressive steps.

  9. Install the connecting cap bolts.

    10. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 2018248 Size: SH
  10. Install and alternately tighten the bolts (1, 2) of the connecting rod cap in several steps.

    11. Tighten
    Tighten the connecting rod cap bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).


    Object Number: 2018255 Size: SH
  11. Mark the front of the connecting rod cap bolts with paint (1).
  12. Retighten the cap bolts by 90 degrees (a) as shown in the illustration.
  13. Check that the crankshaft turns smoothly.
  14. Check the connecting rod thrust clearance. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection.