3.12
Engine/Cooling/Exhaust
Piston Needle Bearing
1. Clean the end of the connecting rod and inspect inner
bore with a magnifying glass. Look for any surface
irregularities including pitting, wear, or dents.
2. Run a fingernail around the inside of the rod and check
for rough spots, galling, or
wear.
3. Oil and install needle bearing and pin in connecting
r
od.
4. Rotate pin slowly and check for rough spots or any
resist
ance to movement.
5. Slide pin back and forth through bearing while rotating
a
nd check for rough spots.
6. With pin and bearing centered in rod, twist ends back
a
nd forth in all directions to check for excessive axial
play.
7. Pull up and down evenly on both ends of pin to check
fo
r radial play.
8. Replace pin and bearing if there is any resistance to
r
otation or excessive axial or radial movement. If play
or roughness is evident with a new pin and bearing,
replace the connecting rod.