OEM 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Rod Bearing

2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Rod Bearing Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Inspect and Replace Rod Bearings to Ensure Proper Alignment and Installation on 2009 Dodge Ram 1500?

  A: Bearing scoring, typical wear, grooves, signs of fatigue and pitting are some problems to watch for in connecting rod bearings. Always replace any part with abnormal wear. Scan through the connecting rod journals for evidence of scoring, tiny nicks or burrs, because incorrectly aligned or crooked connecting rods may cause abnormal wear to parts like pistons, piston rings, cylinder walls, connecting rod bearings and crankshaft connecting rod journals. If any patterns or damage are an indicator of misalignment, check that the connecting rod is properly in place and replace any bent, twisted or off-track rods. First wipe away any oil on the connecting rod journal, then work the upper bearing insert with oil and insert it properly into the connecting rod. Install the rod and piston assembly with the piston ring compressor and Connecting Rod Guides 8507 so the rod oil slinger slots are up front and the "F" on the pistons points forward. Place the lower bearing insert in the bearing cap, ensuring it's dry, then place a strip of Plastigage along the center of the insert on the cap so it doesn't break apart. Attach the bearing cap and connecting rod to the journal with all bolts tightened to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) and 90-degree turns and do not turn the crankshaft to prevent touching the Plastigage. After you remove the bearing cap, pull the disk out and measure the compressed Plastigage. This lets you check that the bearing-to-journal clearance is as it should be. If everything lines up correctly with Plastigage, go ahead to install the engine components; if not, decide which bearing you'll use and remember that the bolts should not be used again after being tightened to the correct torque. Measure Plastigage a second time on the bearing to ensure it is suitable and after selecting the bearing, install it along with the cap. Tighten the connecting rod bolts to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) plus a 90-degree turn. Then, push a feeler gauge that fits tightly into place between the connecting rod and crankshaft flange. Replace the connecting rod if the resulting side clearance fails to meet the recommended specification.