Connecting Rod Bearing Journal-to-Bearing Clearance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The crankshaft connecting rod journals must be within specifications to check the connecting rod bearing journal clearance.

Remove the connecting rod bearing cap.
Position a piece of Plastigage across the bearing surface.

Fig 1: Positioning Piece Of Plasticgage Across Bearing Surface
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not turn the crankshaft during this step.

Install and tighten to specifications, then remove the connecting rod bearing cap.
Measure the Plastigage to get the connecting rod bearing journal clearance. The Plastigage should be smooth and flat. A changing width indicates a tapered or damaged connecting rod or connecting rod bearing.
- If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer to ENGINE for the procedure.
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Plastigage To Get Connecting Rod Bearing Journal Clearance
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.