TL FWD V6-3.5L (2009)
Connecting Rod: Testing and Inspection
Connecting Rod and Crankshaft End Play Inspection
1. Remove the oil pump. See: Engine Lubrication/Oil Pump/Service and Repair
2. Remove the baffle plate. See: Crankshaft/Service and Repair/Crankshaft and Piston Removal
3. Measure the connecting rod end play with a feeler gauge (A) between the connecting rod (B) and the crankshaft (C).
Connecting Rod End Play
4. If the connecting rod end play is beyond the service limit, install a new connecting rod and recheck. If it is still beyond the service limit, replace
the crankshaft. See: Crankshaft/Service and Repair/Crankshaft and Piston Removal
5. Push the crankshaft firmly away from the dial indicator, and zero the dial against the end of the crankshaft. Then pull the crankshaft firmly back
toward the indicator; the dial reading should not exceed the service limit.
Crankshaft End Play
6. If the end play is excessive, replace the thrust washers and recheck. If it is still beyond the service limit, replace the crankshaft. See:
Crankshaft/Service and Repair/Crankshaft and Piston Removal
