OEM 2004 Dodge Dakota Rod Bearing

2004 Dodge Dakota Rod Bearing Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Inspect and Replace Rod Bearings for Proper Installation on 2004 Dodge Dakota?

  A: Verify the connecting rod bearings for signs of wear and replacement, so you don't miss any unusual damage. Review the connecting rod journals for any trace of scoring, nicks or burrs. When connecting rods are bent or misaligned, they can cause unusual wear in pistons, piston rings, cylinder walls, connecting rod bearings and the crankshaft journal; replace any rods that aren't straight. Clean the oil off the connecting rod journal, grease the upper bearing insert and slot it into place in the connecting rod so it centers. Join the rod and piston assemblies with the piston ring compressor and the Guide Pins Special Tool 8507 so that both pin's "F" characters point ahead and the oil slinger slots align with the front of the engine. On the bearing cap, put in the lower bearing insert and verify that it is dry and crosswise at the center add a Plastigage sheet over the length of the lower insert. Instead of turning the crankshaft, tighten bolts to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) and an additional 90° without starting the crankshaft to prevent mixing of the Plastigage. Get rid of the bearing cap, then check the Plastigage thickness to find out if the bearing-to-journal clearance complies with what's expected. After checking the clearance, put away the Plastigage, unless it falls outside limits-then pick the best bearing set, keeping in mind that connecting rod bolts are Torque to Yield and can only be used once. Do another Plastigage measurement to check that the bearing has the correct size. Once you have chosen the right insert, add it and the cap, screw the connecting rod bolts in until they show 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) along with a 90° turn. Place a feeler gauge closely against the connecting rod and crankshaft journal flange to find out if the side clearance is on spec. If not, change the connecting rod.