For 1990-2009 cars

#### Special Tools

• | J 43953 Piston Ring Compressor

• | J-43966-1 Connecting Rod Guides

• | J 45059 Angle Meter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools

1. Install the NEW connecting rod bearings.

1.1. | Install the bearing inserts into the connecting rod and the connecting rod cap.

1.2. | Lubricate the connecting rod bearings with engine oil.

2. Install the J-43966-1 guides into the connecting rod bolt holes. This protects the crankshaft journal during piston and connecting rod installation.
3. Install the J 43953 compressor , the piston, and the connecting rod to the correct bore.

3.1. | Stagger each piston ring end gap equally around the piston.

3.2. | Lubricate the piston and the piston rings with engine oil.

3.3. | Do not disturb the piston ring end gap location.

3.4. | The piston must be installed so that the mark on the top of the piston faces the front of the engine.

3.5. | Place the piston in its matching bore.

3.6. | Tap the piston into its bore with a hammer handle. Guide the connecting rod to the connecting rod journal while tapping the piston into place.

3.7. | Hold the J 43953 compressor against the engine block until all the rings have entered the cylinder bore.

3.8. | Remove the connecting rod guides from the connecting rod bolt holes.

Note: Ensure that the connecting rod cap is properly oriented on the connecting rod.

4. Install the connecting rod cap.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

5. Install the connecting rod bolts. Always use NEW bolts. Tighten the connecting rod bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft), plus 100 degrees using the J 45059 meter .
6. Install the remaining connecting rods and piston assemblies.
7. Measure the connecting rod side clearance with a feeler gage.

The correct clearance is 0.07-0.37 mm (0.0027-0.0145 in).