Town & Country Van AWD V6-230 3.8L VIN L SMFI (1998)
Main Bearing Identification
Upper and lower Number 2 bearing halves are flanged to carry the crankshaft thrust loads and are NOT interchangeable with any other bearing halves
in the engine. All bearing cap bolts removed during service procedures are to be cleaned and oiled before installation. Bearing shells are available in
standard and the following undersizes: 0.025 mm /0.001 inch) and 0.254 mm (0.010 inch). Never install an undersize bearing that will reduce
clearance below specifications.
REMOVAL
1. Remove oil pan and identify bearing caps before removal.
Removing And Installing Upper Main Bearing With Special Tool C-3059
2. Remove bearing caps one at a time. Remove upper half of bearing by inserting Special Main Bearing Tool C-3059. into the oil hole of crankshaft.
3. Slowly rotate crankshaft clockwise, forcing out upper half of bearing shell.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Only one main bearing should be selectively fitted while all other main bearing caps are properly tightened.
When installing a new upper bearing shell, slightly chamfer the sharp edges from the plain side.
1. Start bearing in place, and insert Main Bearing Tool C-3059 into oil hole of crankshaft.
2. Slowly rotate crankshaft counterclockwise sliding the bearing into position. Remove Special Main Bearing Tool C-3059.
3. Install each main cap and tighten bolts finger tight.
4. Tighten number 1, 3 and 4 main cap bolts to 41 Nm + 1/4 Turn (30 ft. lbs.+ 1/4 Turn).
5. Rotate the crankshaft until number 6 piston is at TDC.
6. To ensure correct thrust bearing alignment the following procedure must be done:
a. Move crankshaft all the way to the rear of its travel.
b. then, move crankshaft all the way to the front of its travel.
c. Wedge a appropriate tool between the rear of the cylinder block and rear crankshaft counterweight. This will hold the crankshaft in it's most
forward position.
d. Tighten the #2 Thrust Bearing cap bolts to 41 Nm + 1/4 Turn (30 ft. lbs. + 1/4 Turn). Remove the holding tool.
7. Install oil pan.
8. Fill engine crankcase with proper oil to correct level.
