GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

    • J 41556 Connecting Rod Guide
    • J 8037 Piston Ring Compressor
    • J 45059 Angle Meter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.


    Object Number: 64180  Size: SH

    Note: The piston and cylinder bore have been measured and the bore has been sized for the proper clearance. Install the piston and connecting rod assembly into the proper cylinder bore. The piston alignment mark MUST face the front of the engine block.

  1. Lightly lubricate the following components with clean engine oil:
  2. • The piston
    • The piston rings
    • The cylinder bore
    • The bearing surfaces
  3. Stagger the oil control ring end gaps a minimum of 90 degrees.
  4. Stagger the compression ring end gaps a minimum of 25 mm (1.0 in).
  5. Install the J 8037 compressor onto the piston and compress the piston rings.

  6. Object Number: 1369280  Size: SH

    Note: The piston alignment mark MUST be facing the front of the engine block.

  7. Install the J 41556 guide on the connecting rod guides.

  8. Object Number: 43397  Size: SH
  9. Install the piston and connecting rod assembly into the proper cylinder bore.
  10. Hold the piston ring compressor firmly against the engine block. Using a wooden hammer handle, lightly tap the top of the piston until all of the piston rings enter the cylinder bore.

  11. Object Number: 1360214  Size: SH
  12. Guide the connecting rod end onto the crankshaft journal.
  13. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

  14. Install the bearing, cap, and bolts.
  15. • Tighten the connecting rod bearing cap bolts a first pass to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).
    • Tighten the connecting rod bearing cap bolts a second pass to 75 degrees using the J 45059 meter .

    Object Number: 626625  Size: SH
  16. With the pistons and connecting rods installed, use a soft faced mallet and lightly tap each connecting rod assembly parallel to the crankpin to make sure that the rods have side clearance.
  17. Measure the connecting rod side clearance using a feeler gage or dial indicator. Connecting rod side clearance should be within 0.18-0.44 mm (0.007-0.017 in).