Q: What is the Role of Rod Bearing in Measuring Crankshaft Bearing Clearances with Plastigage on 2007 Jeep Wrangler?
A: When testing engine crankshaft bearing clearances, Plastigage or another tool can be used. Make sure to clean the surface first, as Plastigage will dissolve in oil. Now, apply a band of Plastigage across the inside of the cap at a point halfway across the bearing shell and at least 6.35 mm (1/4 in.) from the oil holes; additional checks may be done in other areas that seem suspect. Tighten the bolts on the bearing cap or bed plate according to the necessary specifications. Once done, take out the bearing cap and examine the Plastigage, finding the division on the packaging that matches how wide the Plastigage became to learn the clearance value in thousandths of a millimeter. Notice if the final measurements differ from the beginning, as this tells you about the taper and write down every measurement. Measure the clearance against the specifications found in the engine specifications table. There are usually two scales on Plastigage: inches and meters. Make sure to pick the right range of clearance for the criteria you are checking. After that, fit the recommended bearings on the crankshaft to have the proper spacing required.