Stratus L4-2.4L VIN X (1998)
Piston Ring End Gap Position
2. Before installing the ring compressor, make sure the oil ring expander ends are butted and the rail gaps located. As viewed from top.
Piston-Installation
3. Immerse the piston head and rings in clean engine oil, slide the ring compressor, over the piston. Be sure position of rings does not change during
this operation.
4. The directional stamp on the piston should face toward the front of the engine.
5. Rotate crankshaft so that the connecting rod journal is on the center of the cylinder bore. Insert rod and piston assembly into cylinder bore and
guide rod over the crankshaft journal.
6. Tap the piston down in cylinder bore, using a hammer handle. At the same time, guide connecting rod into position on connecting rod journal.
NOTE: The connecting rod cap bolts should not be reused.
7. Before installing the NEW bolts the threads should be coated with clean engine oil.
8. Install each bolt finger tight than alternately torque each bolt to assemble the cap properly.
CAUTION: Do not use a torque wrench for second part of last step.
9. Tighten the bolts to 27 Nm PLUS 1/4 turn (20 ft. lbs. PLUS 1/4 turn)
