flat tire CHRYSLER CARAVAN 2005 User Guide

²Occupant Classification Module- Vehicles
equipped with the Occupant Classification System
(OCS) include an Occupant Classification Module
(OCM) which is secured to a stamped steel mounting
bracket on the underside of the passenger side front
seat cushion frame.
²Occupant Restraint Controller- The Occu-
pant Restraint Controller (ORC) is also sometimes
referred to as the Airbag Control Module (ACM). The
ORC is located on a mount on the floor transmission
tunnel just underneath the instrument panel center
stack (Fig. 3).
²Passenger Airbag- The passenger airbag is
located on the instrument panel, beneath the instru-
ment panel top pad and above the glove box on the
passenger side of the vehicle (Fig. 3).
²Passenger Airbag Disabled (PAD) Indicator
- Vehicles equipped with the Occupant Classification
System (OCS) include a passenger airbag disabled
(PAD) indicator which is located in the instrument
panel center stack (Fig. 3).
²Passenger Knee Blocker- The passenger knee
blocker is a structural reinforcement that is integral
to and concealed within the glove box door (Fig. 3).
²Seat Belt Tensioner- A seat belt tensioner is
integral to both front seat belt buckles. The seat belt
buckles are secured to the inner seat frame sides,
beneath a cushion trim panel.
²Seat Weight Bladder and Pressure Sensor
Assembly- Vehicles equipped with the Occupant
Classification System (OCS) include a seat weight
bladder that is sandwiched between an insulator pad
on the top of the passenger side front seat pan and
the seat cushion foam padding. A short hose connects
the bladder to a pressure sensor which is secured to
the Occupant Classification Module (OCM) mounting
bracket on the underside of the passenger side front
seat cushion frame.
²Side Impact Sensors- Six side impact sensors
are used on vehicles equipped with the curtain air-
bags, three left side and three right side. The first
row side impact sensor is located in the B-pillar, just
above the front seat belt retractor. The second row
side impact sensor is located in the sliding side door
track opening, just in front of the C-pillar. The third
row side impact sensor is located behind the quarter
trim panel, above the rear tire wheel well, between
the C and D-pillars.
The ORC, the OCM, and the cluster each contain a
microprocessor and programming that allow them to
communicate with each other using the Programma-
ble Communications Interface (PCI) data bus net-
work. This method of communication is used by the
ORC for control of the airbag indicators.OPERATION
ACTIVE RESTRAINTS
The primary passenger restraints in this or any
other vehicle are the seat belts and child restraint
anchors. Seat belts and child restraint anchors are
referred to as an active restraint because the vehicle
occupants are required to physically fasten and prop-
erly adjust these restraints in order to benefit from
them. See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove
box for more information on the features, use and
operation of all of the active restraints.
PASSIVE RESTRAINTS
The passive restraints are referred to as a supple-
mental restraint system because they were designed
and are intended to enhance the protection for the
occupants of the vehicleONLYwhen used in con-
junction with the seat belts. They are referred to as
passive restraints because the vehicle occupants are
not required to do anything to make them operate;
however, the vehicle occupants must be wearing their
seat belts in order to obtain the maximum safety
benefit from the supplemental restraint system.
The supplemental restraint system electrical cir-
cuits are continuously monitored and controlled by a
microprocessor and software contained within the
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). An airbag indi-
cator in the ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster
(EMIC) illuminates for about seven seconds as a bulb
test each time the ignition switch is turned to the
ON or START positions. Following the bulb test, the
airbag indicator is turned ON or OFF by the ORC to
indicate the status of the supplemental restraint sys-
tem. If the airbag indicator comes ON at any time
other than during the bulb test, it indicates that
there is a problem in the supplemental restraint sys-
tem electrical circuits. Such a problem may cause air-
bags not to deploy when required, or to deploy when
not required.
Deployment of the supplemental restraints
depends upon the angle and severity of an impact.
Deployment is not based upon vehicle speed; rather,
deployment is based upon the rate of deceleration as
measured by the forces of gravity (G force) upon the
impact sensors. When an impact is severe enough,
the microprocessor in the ORC signals the inflator of
the appropriate airbag units to deploy their airbag
cushions. The front seat belt tensioners are provided
with a deployment signal by the ORC in conjunction
with the front airbags. During a frontal vehicle
impact, the knee blockers work in concert with prop-
erly fastened and adjusted seat belts to restrain both
the driver and the front seat passenger in the proper
position for an airbag deployment. The knee blockers
also absorb and distribute the crash energy from the
8O - 4 RESTRAINTSRS
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

The SKREES can be diagnosed and any stored DTC's
can be retrieved using a DRBllltscan tool as
described in the appropriate Body Diagnostic Proce-
dures information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SENTRY KEY
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
WARNING: On vehicles equipped with airbags, refer
to electrical, restraints, warnings, before attempting
component diagnosis or service. Failure to take the
proper precautions could result in accidental airbag
deployment and possible personal injury or death.
NOTE: The following tests may not prove conclu-
sive in the diagnosis of this system. The most reli-
able, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the
Sentry Key Remote Entry System (SKREES)
involves the use of a DRBIIITscan tool. Refer to the
proper Body Diagnostic Procedures information.
The Sentry Key Remote Entry System (SKREES)
and the Programmable Communication Interface
(PCI) bus network should be diagnosed using a scan
tool. The scan tool will allow confirmation that the
PCI bus is functional, that the Sentry Key Remote
Entry Module (SKREEM) is placing the proper mes-
sages on the PCI bus, and that the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM) is receiving the PCI bus
messages. Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic Proce-
dures information, and Wiring Diagrams for complete
circuit descriptions and diagrams.
(1) Check the fuses in the Integrated Power Mod-
ule (IPM). If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the
shorted circuit or component as required and replace
the faulty fuse.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
remote cable from the remote terminal. Unplug the
wire harness connector at the SKREEM. Check for
continuity between the ground circuit cavity of the
SKREEM wire harness connector and a good ground.
There should be continuity. If OK, go to Step 3. If not
OK, repair the open circuit to ground as required.
(3) Connect the battery negative cable. Check for
battery voltage at the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the
SKREEM wire harness connector. If OK, go to Step
4. If not OK, repair the open circuit to the fuse in the
IPM as required.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) circuit cavity of the SKREEM wire
harness connector. If OK, use a scan tool and the
proper Body Diagnostic Procedures information tocomplete the diagnosis of the SKREES. If not OK,
repair the open circuit to the fuse in the IPM as
required.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VEHICLE THEFT
SECURITY SYSTEM
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, further details
on wire harness routing and retention, as well as
pin-out and location views for the various wire har-
ness connectors, splices and grounds. Using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the proper Body Diagnos-
tic Procedures information for test procedures.
HOOD AJAR SWITCH -
EXPORT
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Using a small flat blade screwdriver, pry trig-
ger switch from the bracket on the left fender well.
(3) Disconnect the hood ajar switch from the wire
connector and remove from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Connect the hood ajar switch to the wire conec-
tor.
(2) Press the hood ajar switch into position on the
bracket located on the left inner fender well.
(3) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(4) Close the hood and check for proper operation.
SENTRY KEY REMOTE ENTRY
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM)
performs the functions of the Sentry Key Immobilizer
Module (SKIM), Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Mod-
ule, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) System
(previously part of the Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC).
The SKREEM is located in the same location as
the SKIM was and is mounted the same way. It looks
identical, but has added capabilities.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS)
authenticates an electronically coded Transponder
Key placed into the ignition and sends a valid/invalid
key message to the Powertrain Control Module
RSVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY8Q-3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

OPERATION
When rear wiper operation is required, the BCM
will provide ignition ON voltage to the rear wiper
motor. When the wiper switch is turned OFF, the
BCM provides circuit ground to operate the motor
until the wipe cycle is complete and the wiper arm
returns to the base of the rear window.
The rear wiper/washer switch only offers an inter-
mittent rear wiper mode. The wiper motor will cycle
every 7 seconds. The intermittent delay time is also
adjusted based upon vehicle speed. With the vehicle
traveling greater than 50 mph, the cycle changes to
every 5 seconds.
When rear washer is requested by depressing and
holding down the switch, the BCM then provides a
ground for the rear washer motor. Until the switch is
released, the motor will be in a continuous wipe
mode, then return to an intermittent wipe mode.
WASHER FLUID LEVEL
SWITCH
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Hoist and support vehicle on hoist or jack
stands.
(3) If necessary, remove the right front wheel and
tire assembly (Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS -
REMOVAL).
(4) Disconnect the right front wheelhouse splash
shield and move aside (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD - REMOVAL).
(5) Drain washer fluid from the reservoir and into
a suitable clean container. This can be done by dis-connecting the windshield washer hose from the
front (outboard) washer pump port allowing the
washer fluid to drain into a container through a tem-
porary jumper hose connected to the front washer
pump.
(6) Disconnect the electrical body harness connec-
tor to the the fluid level sensor. Slide the red lock on
the connector to the release position, then, depress
the black tab and pull the connector off the sensor.
(7) Remove the sensor from reservoir by using a
side foot to gently pry the sensor from the body of
the reservoir. Do not damage the reservoir/sensor
sealing surface or puncture reservoir during removal.
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the sensor, assure
the reservoir is in an upright position before remov-
ing the sensor from the reservoir. Do not rotate the
sensor during removal.
INSTALLATION
(1) Use a new grommet when installing a new sen-
sor assembly.
(2) Assure that the flat of the sensor is aligned
under the ridge of the reservoir and that the sensor
connector is facing down in the fully seated position.
This will allow for proper operation of the sensor
float switch.
(3) Connect the electrical body harness connectors
to the fluid level sensor. Slide the red lock on the
connector to the closed or locked position.
(4) Assure that washer hose is properly routed to
prevent pinching and possible inoperative washers.
(5) Connect the left right front wheelhouse splash
shield and move aside (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD - INSTALLA-
TION).
(6) Install the right front wheel and tire assembly
(Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS - INSTALLATION).
(7) lower vehicle from hoist or jack stands.
(8) Connect the battery negative cable.
(9) Verify system operation.
WASHER HOSES
REMOVAL
(1) Remove washer reservoir from vehicle (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/WASHER
RESERVOIR - REMOVAL).
(2) Disconnect washer hose front the reservoir cav-
ity.
(3) Disconnect the washer hose from the reservoir
pump.
(4) Remove parts as necessary to replace washer
hose (engine compartment, interior components, etc.).
Fig. 4 REAR WIPER/WASHER SWITCH LOCATION
1 - REAR WIPER/WASHER SWITCH
2 - HVAC CONTROL UNIT
RSWIPERS/WASHERS8R-11
REAR WIPER/WASHER SWITCH (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Install parts as necessary to after replacing
washer hose (engine compartment, interior compo-
nents, etc.).
(2) Connect the washer hose to the reservoir
pump.
(3) Connect washer hose to the reservoir cavity.
(4) Install the washer reservoir into vehicle (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/WASHER
RESERVOIR - INSTALLATION).
WASHER PUMP MOTOR
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Hoist and support vehicle on hoist or jack
stands.
(3) If necessary, remove the right front wheel and
tire assembly (Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS -
REMOVAL).
(4) Disconnect the right front wheelhouse splash
shield and move aside (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD - REMOVAL).
(5) Drain washer fluid from the reservoir and into
a suitable clean container. This can be done by dis-
connecting the windshield washer hose from the
front (outboard) washer pump port and allowing the
washer fluid to drain into a container through a tem-
porary jumper hose connected to the front washer
pump port.
(6) Disconnect the electrical body harness connec-
tors to the washer pump motor. Slide the red lock on
the connector to the release position, then, depress
the black tab and pull the connector off the pump.
(7) Remove pump from reservoir by pulling pump
upper retention tab away from reservoir cavity and
then lifting pump up from mounting grommet. Do
not damage reservoir/pump sealing surface or punc-
ture reservoir during removal.
(8) Remove pump grommet and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Use new grommet when installing a new pump
assembly.
(2) Assure pump upper retention tab is pressed
into reservoir slot and that pump is rotated flat
against the reservoir and that pump connector is fac-
ing up in the fully seated position. Assure the pump
is aligned to and fully seated in the reservoir cavity.
(3) Connect the electrical body harness connectors
to the washer pump motor. Slide the red lock on the
connector to the closed or locked position.
(4) Assure that washer hose is properly routed to
prevent pinching and possible inoperative washers.(5) Connect the left right front wheelhouse splash
shield and move aside (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD - INSTALLA-
TION).
(6) Install the right front wheel and tire assembly
(Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS - INSTALLATION).
(7) lower vehicle from hoist or jack stands.
(8) Connect the battery negative cable.
(9) Verify system operation.
WASHER RESERVOIR
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the engine fresh air housing inside the
engine compartment (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/AIR
INTAKE SYSTEM/AIR CLEANER HOUSING -
REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the washer hose at the in-line con-
nector forward of the cowl grille so that the in-line
connector remains with the washer hose from the
fresh air plenum.
(4) Disconnect the washer hose from the hose clip
located on the front fender side shield.
(5) Remove the filler tube screw.
(6) Hoist and support vehicle on hoist or jack
stands.
(7) Remove the right front wheel and tire assembly
(Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS - REMOVAL).
(8) Disconnect the left right front wheelhouse
splash shield and move aside (Refer to 23 - BODY/
EXTERIOR/WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD -
REMOVAL).
(9) Drain washer fluid from the reservoir and into
a suitable clean container. This can be done by dis-
connecting the windshield washer hose from the
front (outboard) washer pump port allowing the
washer fluid to drain into a container through a tem-
porary jumper hose connected to the washer pump
port.
(10) Disconnect the electrical body harness connec-
tors to the washer pump motor and the fluid level
sensor. Slide the red lock on the connector to the
release position, then, depress the black tab and pull
the connector off the pump or sensor.
(11) Remove the two reservoir mounting screws.
(12) Disconnect the reservoir from the body mount
by raising the reservoir upward slightly and then
down so that the reservoir filler neck and front
washer hose pull through the opening in the front
fender side shield.
8R - 12 WIPERS/WASHERSRS
WASHER HOSES (Continued)

The IPM provides the primary means of voltage dis-
tribution and protection for the entire vehicle.
OPERATION
All of the current from the battery and the gener-
ator output enters the Integrated Power Module
(IPM) through a four- pin connector on the bottom of
the module. Internal connections of all of the power
distribution center circuits is accomplished by a com-
bination of bus bars and a printed circuit board.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the negative and positive battery
cables.
(2) Remove the battery thermal guard.
(3) Remove the battery (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY - REMOVAL).
(4) Using a flat-bladed screwdriver, twist the Inte-
grated Power Module (IPM) bracket retaining latch
outward to free the IPM from its mounting bracket
(Fig. 2).
(5) Rotate the IPM counter-clockwise to access and
disconnect the electrical connectors (Fig. 3).
(6) Remove the IPM bracket clips from the hinge.
INSTALLATION
(1) Snap the left side of the Integrated Power Mod-
ule (IPM) housing in its mounting bracket and con-
nect the various electrical connectors.NOTE: Ensure that the Connector Positive Assur-
ance (CPA) on the five-pin B+ connector is posi-
tively engaged to prevent generating a Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC).
(2) Rotate the IPM clock-wise until secured in
mounting bracket. An audible click may be heard.
(3) Install the battery (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY - INSTALLATION).
(4) Install the battery thermal guard.
Fig. 1 INTEGRATED POWER MODULE
1 - BATTERY THERMAL GUARD
2 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE
3 - FRONT CONTROL MODULE
Fig. 2 INTEGRATED POWER MODULE
Fig. 3 DISCONNECTING IPM
1 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE
8W - 97 - 2 8W-97 POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMRS
INTEGRATED POWER MODULE (Continued)

²Drill motor with 3M RolocŸ Bristle Disc (white
or yellow) (Fig. 3)
CAUTION: Excessive pressure or high RPM (beyond
the recommended speed), can damage the sealing
surfaces. The mild (white, 120 grit) bristle disc is
recommended. If necessary, the medium (yellow, 80
grit) bristle disc may be used on cast iron surfaces
with care.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
BEARING CLEARANCE USING PLASTIGAGE
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage or equivalent. The follow-
ing is the recommended procedure for the use of
Plastigage:
(1) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(2) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing shell in the cap approximately
6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from the oil
holes (Fig. 4). (In addition, suspected areas can be
checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspected
area). Torque the bearing cap/bed plate bolts of the
bearing being checked to the proper specifications.
(3) Remove the bearing cap and compare the
width of the flattened Plastigage with the metric
scale provided on the package. Locate the band clos-
est to the same width. This band shows the amount
of clearance in thousandths of a millimeter. Differ-
ences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken.
Compare the clearance measurements to specsifica-
tions found in the engine specifications table(Refer to9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS).Plastigage gen-
erally is accompanied by two scales. One scale
is in inches, the other is a metric scale.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clear-
ance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for
the specifications you are checking.
(4) Install the proper crankshaft bearings to
achieve the specified bearing clearances.
REMOVAL - ENGINE ASSEMBLY
(1) Perform fuel pressure release procedure (Refer
to 14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE)
(2) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(3) Remove air cleaner housing and inlet tube.
(4) Disconnect the fuel line from fuel rail. (Refer to
14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY/FUEL LINES
- STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(5) Disconnect all vacuum hoses.
(6) Drain cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(7) Remove radiator fans. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ENGINE/RADIATOR FAN - REMOVAL)
(8) Remove radiator upper and lower hoses.
NOTE: When the transaxle cooler lines are removed
from the rolled-groove type fittings at the transaxle,
damage to the inner wall of the hose will occur. To
prevent prevent potential leakage, the cooler hoses
must be cut off flush at the transaxle fitting, and a
service cooler hose splice kit must be installed
upon reassembly.
Fig. 3 Proper Tool Usage For Surface Preparation
1 - ABRASIVE PAD
2 - 3M ROLOCŸ BRISTLE DISC
3 - PLASTIC/WOOD SCRAPER
Fig. 4 Plastigage Placed in Lower ShellÐTypical
1 - PLASTIGAGE
9 - 12 ENGINE 2.4LRS
ENGINE 2.4L (Continued)

Calibrate the tester according to the manufactur-
er's instructions. The shop air source for testing
should maintain 483 kPa (70 psi) minimum, 1,379
kPa (200 psi) maximum, with 552 kPa (80 psi) rec-
ommended.
Perform the test procedures on each cylinder
according to the tester manufacturer's instructions.
While testing, listen for pressurized air escaping
through the throttle body, tailpipe and oil filler cap
opening. Check for bubbles in the coolant.
All gauge pressure indications should be equal,
with no more than 25% leakage per cylinder.
FOR EXAMPLE:At 552 kPa (80 psi) input pres-
sure, a minimum of 414 kPa (60 psi) should be main-
tained in the cylinder.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
BEARING CLEARANCE USING PLASTIGAGE
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage or equivalent. The follow-
ing is the recommended procedure for the use of
Plastigage:
(1) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(2) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing shell in the cap approximately
6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from the oil
holes (Fig. 3). (In addition, suspected areas can be
checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspected
area). Torque the bearing cap/bed plate bolts of the
bearing being checked to the proper specifications.
(3) Remove the bearing cap and compare the
width of the flattened Plastigage with the metric
scale provided on the package. Locate the band clos-est to the same width. This band shows the amount
of clearance in thousandths of a millimeter. Differ-
ences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken.
Compare the clearance measurements to specsifica-
tions found in the engine specifications table(Refer to
9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS).Plastigage gen-
erally is accompanied by two scales. One scale
is in inches, the other is a metric scale.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clear-
ance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for
the specifications you are checking.
(4) Install the proper crankshaft bearings to
achieve the specified bearing clearances.
FORM-IN-PLACE GASKETS AND SEALERS
There are numerous places where form-in-place
gaskets are used on the engine. Care must be taken
when applying form-in-place gaskets to assure
obtaining the desired results.Do not use form-in-
place gasket material unless specified.Bead size,
continuity, and location are of great importance. Too
thin a bead can result in leakage while too much can
result in spill-over which can break off and obstruct
fluid feed lines. A continuous bead of the proper
width is essential to obtain a leak-free gasket.
There are numerous types of form-in-place gasket
materials that are used in the engine area. Mopart
Engine RTV GEN II, MopartATF-RTV, and Mopart
Gasket Maker gasket materials, each have different
properties and can not be used in place of the other.
MOPARtENGINE RTV GEN IIis used to seal
components exposed to engine oil. This material is a
specially designed black silicone rubber RTV that
retains adhesion and sealing properties when
exposed to engine oil. Moisture in the air causes the
material to cure. This material is available in three
ounce tubes and has a shelf life of one year. After one
year this material will not properly cure. Always
inspect the package for the expiration date before
use.
MOPARtATF RTVis a specifically designed
black silicone rubber RTV that retains adhesion and
sealing properties to seal components exposed to
automatic transmission fluid, engine coolants, and
moisture. This material is available in three ounce
tubes and has a shelf life of one year. After one year
this material will not properly cure. Always inspect
the package for the expiration date before use.
MOPARtGASKET MAKERis an anaerobic type
gasket material. The material cures in the absence of
air when squeezed between two metallic surfaces. It
will not cure if left in the uncovered tube. The
anaerobic material is for use between two machined
surfaces. Do not use on flexible metal flanges.
Fig. 3 Plastigage Placed in Lower ShellÐTypical
1 - PLASTIGAGE
9 - 86 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)

CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
CONNECTING ROD BEARING CLEARANCE
The bearing caps are not interchangeable and
should be marked at removal to ensure correct
assembly. The bearing shells must be installed with
the tangs inserted into the machined grooves in the
rods and caps. Install cap with the tangs on the same
side as the rod. Fit all rods on one bank until com-
plete. Connecting rod bearings are available in the
standard size and the following undersizes: 0.025
mm (0.001 in.) and 0.250 mm (0.010 in.).
CAUTION: Install the bearings in pairs. Do not use a
new bearing half with an old bearing half. Do not
file the rods or bearing caps.
Measure connecting rod journal for taper and out-
of-round. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/
CRANKSHAFT - INSPECTION)The connecting rod bearing clearances can be
determined by use of Plastigage or the equivalent.
The following is the recommended procedure for the
use of Plastigage:
(1) Rotate the crankshaft until the connecting rod
to be checked is at the bottom of its stroke.
(2) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(3) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing shell in the bearing cap approx-
imately 6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from
the oil hole. In addition, suspect areas can be
checked by placing Plastigage in that area.
(4) Assemble the rod cap with Plastigage in place.
Tighten the rod cap to the specified torque.Do not
rotate the crankshaft while assembling the cap
or the Plastigage may be smeared, giving inac-
curate results.
(5) Remove the bearing cap and compare the
width of the flattened Plastigage with the scale pro-
vided on the package (Fig. 61). Locate the band clos-
est to the same width. This band indicates the
Fig. 60 Piston and Connecting Rod Positioning (Front View of Engine)
1 - MAJOR THRUST SIDE OF PISTON2 - OIL SQUIRT HOLE
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9 - 123
PISTON & CONNECTING ROD (Continued)

Upper and lower number 2 bearing halves are
flanged to carry the crankshaft thrust loads and are
NOT interchangeable with any other bearing halves
in the engine (Fig. 69). All bearing cap bolts removed
during service procedures are to be cleaned and
lubricated with engine oil before installation. Bearing
shells are available in standard and the following
undersizes: 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) and 0.254 mm
(0.010 in). Never install an undersize bearing that
will reduce clearance below specifications.
CRANKSHAFT BEARING OIL CLEARANCE
Inspect the crankshaft bearing journals. (Refer to 9
- ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CRANKSHAFT -
INSPECTION)
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage or the equivalent. The fol-
lowing is the recommended procedures for the use ofPlastigage with the engine in the vehicle or engine
on a repair stand.
PLASTIGAGE METHODÐENGINE IN-VEHICLE
NOTE: The total clearance of the main bearings can
only be determined with the engine in the vehicle
by removing the weight of the crankshaft. This can
be accomplished by either of two following meth-
ods:
(1) Preferred method:
a. Shim the bearings adjacent to the bearing to be
checked in order to remove the clearance between
upper bearing shell and the crankshaft. This can be
accomplished by placing a minimum of 0.254 mm
(0.010 in.) shim (e. g. cardboard, matchbook cover,
etc.) between the bearing shell and the bearing cap
on the adjacent bearings and tightening bolts to
14±20 N´m (10±15 ft. lbs.).
²When checking #1 main bearing shim #2 main
bearing.
²When checking #2 main bearing shim #1 & #3
main bearing.
²When checking #3 main bearing shim #2 & #4
main bearing.
²When checking #4 main bearing shim #3 main
bearing.
NOTE: Remove all shims before reassembling
engine.
(2) Alternative Method:
a. Support the weight of the crankshaft with a
jack under the counterweight adjacent to the bearing
being checked.
(3) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(4) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing shell in the cap approximately
6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from the oil
holes (Fig. 70). (In addition, suspected areas can be
checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspected
area). Torque the bearing cap bolts of the bearing
being checked to the proper specifications.
(5) Remove the bearing cap and compare the width
of the flattened Plastigage (Fig. 71) with the scale
provided on the package. Locate the band closest to
the same width. This band shows the amount of
clearance in thousandths. Differences in readings
between the ends indicate the amount of taper
present. Record all readings taken. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS)Plastigage gener-
ally is accompanied by two scales. One scale is
in inches, the other is a metric scale.
Fig. 68 Main Bearing Cap Identification
Fig. 69 Main Bearing Identification
1 - OIL GROOVES
2 - OIL HOLES
3 - UPPER BEARINGS
4 - LOWER BEARINGS
9 - 126 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGS (Continued)

STEERING WHEEL FEEL
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
STEERING WHEEL/
COLUMN CLICKING,
CLUNKING OR RATTLING.1. Loose steering coupling pinch
bolt.1. Replace pinch bolt and torque to
specifications.
2. Steering column bearings. 2. Replace steering column.
3. Excessive intermediate shaft
coupling free-play.3. Replace intermediate shaft.
STEERING WHEEL HAS
FORE AND AFT
LOOSENESS.1. Steering wheel retaining nut not
properly tightened and torqued.1. Tighten the steering wheel retaining nut
to its specified torque.
2. Steering column lower bearing
spring retainer slipped on steering
column shaft.2. Replace steering column.
3. Loose steering column to
instrument panel fasteners.3. Tighten fasteners to specified torque.
STEERING WHEEL, DASH
OR VEHICLE VIBRATES
DURING LOW SPEED OR
STANDSTILL STEERING
MANEUVERS.1. Air in the fluid of the power
steering system.1. Bleed air from system following the
power steering pump initial operation
service procedure.*
2. Tires not properly inflated. 2. Inflate tires to the specified pressure.
3. Excessive engine vibration. 3. Ensure that the engine is tuned properly.
4. Loose tie rod end jam nut. 4. Tighten the inner to outer tie rod jam nut
to the specified torque.
5.Overcharged air conditioning
system.5.Check air conditioning pump head
pressure and correct as necessary.
6. Grounded engine mount. 6. Repair as necessary.
7. Loose outer tie rod. 7. Replace outer tie rod.
STEERING CATCHES,
SURGES OR STICKS IN
CERTAIN POSITIONS OR
IS DIFFICULT TO TURN. ***1. Low power steering fluid level. 1. Fill power steering fluid reservoir to
specified level and check for leaks.
2. Tires not inflated to specified
pressure.2. Inflate tires to the specified pressure.
3. Lack of lubrication in front lower
control arm ball joints.3. Lubricate ball joints if ball joints are not a
lubricated-for-life type ball joint. If ball joint
is a lubricated-for-life ball joint, replace ball
joint.
4. Worn or binding lower control arm
ball joint.4. Replace lower control arm ball joint.
5. Lack of lubrication in steering gear
outer tie rod ends.5. Lubricate tie rod ends if they are not a
lubricated-for-life type. If tie rod end is a
lubricated-for-life type, replace tie rod end.
19 - 6 STEERINGRS
STEERING (Continued)