OEM 2007 Dodge Nitro Crankshaft

2007 Dodge Nitro Crankshaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Properly Install a Crankshaft on 2007 Dodge Nitro?

  A: Be careful when setting the crankshaft that the main bearings are selected correctly and don't damage the crankshaft bearing surfaces. Sealant should be put on the tone wheel retaining screws before installing them. First, oil the upper part of the main bearing with clean engine oil and add the crankshaft tone wheel, making sure to tighten those screws to 15 Nm (11 ft. lbs.). Secure the crankshaft into the cylinder block and put the thrust washers into place. After cleaning the bedplate to cylinder block mating surface, use Mopar® Engine RTV sealant on it to prevent excessive oil leaks. Spread a 2.5mm (0.100 inch) thick ring of Mopar® Engine RTV sealant around the join between the cylinder block and bedplate. Either by wiping or spraying, coat the crankshaft main bearing journals with engine oil, then put the bedplate onto the cylinder block, cleanly lubricating the bedplate retaining bolts before you install them. Install the bedplate retaining bolts and check that the stud bolts are in the correct place. Afterwards, torque the bolts so the bedplate touches the block, starting with bolts 1D, 1G and 1F, then torque bolts 1A to 1J to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.), bolts 1 and 8 to 7 Nm (5 ft. lbs.), turn them another 90° and finally torque bolts A to E to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.). First, measure crankshaft end play, next install the connecting rods and side clearance and finally install the oil pump and engine.