Connecting Rod And Crankshaft

Using feeler gauge, measure the end play while moving the connecting rod back and forth.

End play

Standard: 0.1~0.25mm (0.0039~0.0098in)

Maximum: 0.4mm (0.0157in)

Fig 1: Measuring End Play While Moving Connecting Rod Back And Forth

Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.

• If out-of-tolerance, install a new connecting rod.
• If still out-of-tolerance, replace the crankshaft.

1. Check the match marks on the connecting rod and cap are aligned to ensure correct reassembly.
2. Remove the 2 connecting rod cap nuts.
3. Remove the connecting rod cap and lower bearing.
4. Clean the crankshaft pin journal and bearing.
5. Place a plastigage across the crankshaft pin journal.
6. Reinstall the lower bearing and cap, and tighten the nuts.

   Tightening torque:

   31.4~34.3N.m (3.2~3.5kgf.m, 23.1~25.3lb-ft)

   NOTE: Do not turn the crankshaft.
7. Remove the 2nuts, connecting rod cap and lower bearing.
8. Measure the plastigage at its widest point.

   Standard oil clearance

   0.018~0.036mm (0.0007~0.0014in)

   Fig 2: Measuring Plastigage At Its Widest Point

   Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
9. If the plastigage measures too wide or too narrow, remove the upper and lower bearing and then install a new bearings with the same color mark. (Refer to , CONNECTING ROD BEARING SELECTION TABLE )

   Recheck the oil clearance.

   CAUTION: Do not File, shim, of scrape the bearings or the caps to adjust clearance.
10. If the plastigage shows the clearance is still incorrect, try the next larger or smaller bearing. (Refer to , CONNECTING ROD BEARING SELECTION TABLE )

    Recheck the oil clearance.

    NOTE: If the proper clearance cannot be obtained by using the appropriate larger or smaller bearings, replace the crankshaft and start over.
    CAUTION: If the marks are indecipherable because of an accumulation of dirt and dust, do not scrub them with a wire brush or scraper. Clean them only with solvent or detergent.