OEM 2009 Dodge Nitro Crankshaft

2009 Dodge Nitro Crankshaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Install a Crankshaft and Bedplate in an Engine on 2009 Dodge Nitro?

  A: When fitting the crankshaft, first make certain the main bearings are select fit and then apply sealant to the tone wheel retaining screws. After lubricating the upper main bearing halves with clean oil, place the crankshaft tone wheel and secure it with 15 Nm (11 ft. lbs.) of torque. Slot the crankshaft into the block and pop in the thrust washers. Apply a thin coat of Mopar® Engine RTV sealant to the bedplate to cylinder block mating surface and make sure the surfaces are clean to avoid big oil leaks. Use about 2.5mm (0.100 inch) of Mopar® Engine RTV sealant around the part where the block and the bedplate come together. After lubricating the crankshaft main bearing journals with clean engine oil, line the bedplate onto the cylinder block and put clean engine oil on the bolts that hold the bedplate in place. After installing the bedplate retaining bolts, place the stud bolts correctly, tighten them in the correct order: hand tighten bolts 1D, 1G and 1F and then tighten bolts 1A - 1J to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.), bolts 1-8 to 7 Nm (5 ft. lbs.), turn bolts 1 - 8 an extra 90° and fasten bolts A - E to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.). First, check crankshaft end play, put on the connecting rods and measure side clearance after that, set the oil pump and finally, set in the engine.