Connecting Rods, Checking Radial Clearance

Special tools and workshop equipment required 

• Plastigage

Procedure 

-- Mark the installation position and which connecting rod bearing cap -1- belongs to which connecting rod -item  : Connecting Rod Bearing Cap.

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Remove the bolts -arrows- and remove the connecting rod bearing cap.

• Do not damage the cracked surfaces of the connecting rods and connecting rod bearing caps.

-- Clean the bearing cap and pin.

-- Place the Plastigage over the entire width of the bearing journal or into the bearing shells.

-- Position the connecting rod bearing cap and fasten with the old bolts -item  : Bolts. Do not turn the crankshaft at the same time.

-- Remove the connecting rod bearing cap again.

-- Compare the width of the Plastigage with the measuring scale.

Radial clearance

• New: 0.02 to 0.06 mm.
• Wear limit: 0.09 mm.

-- Replace the bolts for the final assembly.