Durango 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (1998)
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. Remove oil film from surface to be checked. Plastigage is soluble in oil.
2. Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire width of the bearing cap shell. Position the Plastigage approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) off center
and away from the oil holes. In addition, suspect areas can be checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspect area.
3. The crankshaft must be rotated until the connecting rod to be checked starts moving toward the top of the engine. Only then should the rod cap,
with Plastigage in place, be assembled. Tighten the rod cap nut to 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.) torque. DO NOT rotate the crankshaft or the Plastigage may
be smeared, giving inaccurate results.
4. Remove the bearing cap and compare the width of the flattened Plastigage with the scale provided on the package. Plastigage generally comes in
two scales (one scale is in inches and the other is a metric scale). Locate the band closest to the same width. This band shows the amount of
clearance. Differences in readings between the ends indicate the amount of taper present. Record all readings taken. Refer to Engine
Specifications.
5. Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance ranges. The 0.025 - 0.076 mm (0.001 - 0.003 inch) range is usually the most appropriate for
checking engine bearing clearances.
