GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 8037 /J 43953 Piston Ring Compressor
    • J 36660-A /SA9140E Torque Angle Meter
    • J-43966-1 /J 41742 Connecting Rod Guides

    Object Number: 412431  Size: SH
  1. Install the connecting rod bearings. Use the proper size bearings.
  2. 1.1. Install the bearing inserts into the connecting rod and the connecting rod cap.
    1.2. Lubricate the connecting rod bearings with engine oil.
  3. Install the J-43966-1 into the connecting rod bolt holes This protects the crankshaft journal during piston and connecting rod installation.
  4. Install the piston and the connecting rod to the correct bore.
  5. 3.1. Stagger each piston ring end gap equally around the piston.
    3.2. Lubricate the piston and the piston rings with engine oil.
    3.3. Install J 8037 /J 43953 over the piston. Do not disturb the piston ring end gap location.
    3.4. The piston must be installed so that the mark on the top of the piston faces the front of the engine.
    3.5. Place the piston in its matching bore.
    3.6. Tap the piston into its bore with a hammer handle. Guide the connecting rod to the connecting rod journal while tapping the piston into place.
    3.7. Hold the J 8037 /J 43953 against the engine block until all the rings have entered the cylinder bore.
    3.8. Remove the connecting rod guides from the connecting rod bolt holes.

    Object Number: 412430  Size: SH

    Important: Ensure that the connecting rod cap is properly oriented on the connecting rod.

  6. Install the connecting rod cap.
  7. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  8. Install the connecting rod bolts. Always use new bolts.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the connecting rod bolt nuts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft), then rotate 100 degrees using the J 36660-A .

  10. Install the remaining connecting rods and piston assemblies.

  11. Object Number: 465919  Size: SH
  12. Measure the connecting rod side clearance with a feeler gauge.
  13. The correct clearance is 0.070-0.370 mm (0.0027-0.0145 in).