GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36660-A Torque Angle MeterJ 8037 Piston Ring Compressor


    Object Number: 33665  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 piston and the connecting rod to the correct bore.
  4. 2.1. Slide a piece of 9.5 mm (0.375 in) fuel or vacuum hose over the connecting rod bolts. This protects the crankshaft journal during piston and connecting rod installation.
    2.2. Stagger each piston ring end gap equally around the piston.
    2.3. Lubricate the piston and the piston rings with engine oil.
    2.4. Install J 8037 over the piston. Do not disturb the piston ring end gap location.
    2.5. The piston must be installed so that the mark on the top of the piston faces the front of the engine.
    2.6. Place the piston in its matching bore.
    2.7. 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.
    2.8. Hold the J 8037 against the engine block until all the rings have entered the cylinder bore.
    2.9. Remove the vacuum hose from the connecting rod bolts.

    Object Number: 4328  Size: SH
  5. Measure the connecting rod side clearance with a feeler gauge.
  6. The correct clearance is 0.150-0.450 mm (0.0059-0.0177 in).

  7. Install the crankshaft timing sprocket with the marked side facing out and rotate the crankshaft to align the keyway with the timing mark on the engine block.