Grand Caravan V6-3.8L (2009)
Connecting Rod Bearing: Service and Repair
MEASURING CONNECTING ROD BEARING CLEARANCE
The bearing caps are not interchangeable and should be marked (1) at removal to ensure correct assembly. The bearing shells must be installed with the
tangs inserted into the machined grooves in the rods and caps. Install cap with the tangs on the same side as the rod. Fit all rods on one bank until
complete. Connecting rod bearings are available in the standard size and the following undersizes: 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) and 0.250 mm (0.010 in.).
CAUTION: Install the bearings in pairs. Do not use a new bearing half with an old bearing half. Do not file the rods or bearing caps.
Measure connecting rod journal for taper and out-of-round See: Specifications/Engine Specifications.
The connecting rod bearing clearances can be determined by use of Plastigage or the equivalent. The following is the recommended procedure for the
use of Plastigage:
1. Rotate the crankshaft until the connecting rod to be checked is at the bottom of its stroke.
2. Remove oil film from surface to be checked. Plastigage is soluble in oil.
3. Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire width of the bearing shell in the bearing cap approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from
the oil hole. In addition, suspect areas can be checked by placing Plastigage in that area.
4. Assemble the rod cap with Plastigage in place. Tighten the rod cap to the specified torque. Do not rotate the crankshaft while assembling the
