Date:         Mon, 15 Jan 2001 20:57:18 -0800
Reply-To:     Jim Arnott <jrasite@EONI.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jim Arnott <jrasite@EONI.COM>
Organization: WetWesties <http://wetwesties.org>
Subject:      Re: How do I test the big end bearings
Comments: To: Zoltan <zol@FOXINTERNET.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Plastigage.  Remove the rod cap and rod.  Wipe down to remove large
amounts of oil. Cut a piece of Plastigage about 5/8" long. Place
Plastigage across the rod bearing and reassemble.  Torque rod
nuts/bolts. (33 ft lb for 1.9, 22 lb ft for 2.1) DO NOT MOVE THE ROD
ON THE CRANK!!! Remove rod cap and rod.  Measure 'squished' width of
Plastigage using printed marks on Plastigage package. If within
spec,(.001-.003. Wear limit: .006. Anything over .0035 and I'd re-do
the lower end...) clean off Plastigage, lightly oil (I use SAE 30
Valvoline for assembly/break-in). reassemble. See Bentley 13.30 for
details (NOTE: Bentley page is for the Diesel, but the procedure is
the same for ALL 'plain bearing' connecting rods. The clearance spec
is typical for ALL automotive engines.)

Jim Arnott
WetWesties
Union, OR