OEM 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Piston

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Piston Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Properly Remove and Install Pistons and Connecting Rods in an Engine on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

  A: It is necessary to remove the cylinder head before unscrewing the pistons and connecting rods. First, take a high-quality ridge reamer and slowly clear the topmost part of the cylinder bores as you give the pistons protection. Each piston's front needs a stamping that aligns with the engine's front. After that, take off the oil pan and the Balance Shaft Carrier Assembly. Write the amount of the cylinder on every rod cap with a permanent ink, not a number punch or stamp, to help avoid damage to the connecting rod. With care, remove the connecting rod bolts and cap and leave the bolts alone as you won't be using them again. Centering the connecting rod in the cylinder with the rotating crankshaft, followed by gently pushing the entire piston-and-rod assembly out, will remove them. Once the bearing is removed from the rod, attach the bearing cap and work on each assembly since the pistons and connecting rods go together. When installing, arrange the compression ring gaps so they alternate and make sure the ends of the oil rings butted with the rail gaps are put correctly. Make sure the rings are still in place as you cover both with clean engine oil, then apply the ring compressor on top of the piston. The stamp with an arrow on the piston should once more be turned so it is facing the front of the engine. Photo of person instrucuted to turn the crankshaft, align the journal, place the assembly in the bore, then roll the rod over the journal. Using a hammer handle, tap the piston until the connecting rod sits in its spot. Replace the connecting rod cap bolts and their threads should be covered with clean engine oil before you fit them. Add each bolt just finger-tight and torque them properly, changing the bolt every turn, up to 27 Nm plus 1/4 turn without a torque wrench in the last part. After measuring the clearance at the connecting rods with a feeler gauge, put the Balance Shaft Carrier Assembly, oil pan and cylinder head back in place.