Stratus L4-2.4L VIN X (1998)
Clearance Measurement
3. Remove the bearing cap and compare the width of the flattened Plastigage with the metric scale provided on the package. Locate the band closest
to the same width. This band shows the amount of clearance in thousandths of a millimeter. Differences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken. Plastigage generally is accompanied by two scales. One scale is in inches, the other is a metric
scale.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for the specifications you are checking.
Connecting Rod Bearing Clearance
Engine connecting rod bearing clearances can be determined by use of Plastigage or 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 inch) off center and away
from the oil hole. In addition, suspect areas can be checked by placing Plastigage in the suspect 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 cap
or the Plastigage may be smeared, giving inaccurate results.
5. Remove the bearing cap and compare the width of the flattened Plastigage with the scale provided on the package. Locate the band closest to the
same width. This band indicates the amount of oil clearance. Differences in readings between the ends indicate the amount of taper present.
Record all readings taken. Plastigage generally is accompanied by two scales. One scale is in inches, the other is a metric scale. If the bearing
clearance exceeds 0.076 mm (0.003 inch) replace bearing.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for the specifications you are checking.
