flat tire CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2001 User Guide

²Tires
²Road surfaces
²Wheel bearings
²Engine
²Transmission
²Exhaust
²Propeller shaft (vibration)
²Vehicle body (drumming)
Driveline module noises are normally divided into
two categories: gear noise or bearing noise. A thor-
ough and careful inspection should be completed to
determine the actual source of the noise before
replacing the driveline module.
The rubber mounting bushings help to dampen-out
driveline module noise when properly installed.
Inspect to confirm that no metal contact exists
between the driveline module case and the body. The
complete isolation of noise to one area requires
expertise and experience. Identifying certain types of
vehicle noise baffles even the most capable techni-
cians. Often such practices as:
²Increase tire inflation pressure to eliminate tire
noise.
²Listen for noise at varying speeds with different
driveline load conditions
²Swerving the vehicle from left to right to detect
wheel bearing noise.
All driveline module assemblies produce noise to a
certain extent. Slight carrier noise that is noticeable
only at certain speeds or isolated situations should be
considered normal. Carrier noise tends to peak at a
variety of vehicle speeds. Noise isNOT ALWAYSan
indication of a problem within the carrier.
TIRE NOISE
Tire noise is often mistaken for driveline module
noise. Tires that are unbalanced, worn unevenly or
are worn in a saw-tooth manner are usually noisy.
They often produce a noise that appears to originate
in the driveline module.
Tire noise changes with different road surfaces, but
driveline module noise does not. Inflate all four tires
with approximately 20 psi (138 kPa) more than the
recommended inflation pressure (for test purposes
only). This will alter noise caused by tires, but will
not affect noise caused by the differential. Rear axle
noise usually ceases when coasting at speeds less
than 30 mph (48 km/h); however, tire noise contin-
ues, but at a lower frequency, as the speed is
reduced.
After test has been completed lower tire pressure
back to recommended pressure.
GEAR NOISE (DRIVE PINION AND RING GEAR)
Abnormal gear noise is rare and is usually caused
by scoring on the ring gear and drive pinion. Scoringis the result of insufficient or incorrect lubricant in
the carrier housing.
Abnormal gear noise can be easily recognized. It
produces a cycling tone that will be very pronounced
within a given speed range. The noise can occur dur-
ing one or more of the following drive conditions:
²Drive
²Road load
²Float
²Coast
Abnormal gear noise usually tends to peak within
a narrow vehicle speed range or ranges. It is usually
more pronounced between 30 to 40 mph (48 to 64
km/h) and 50 to 60 mph (80 to 96 km/h). When objec-
tionable gear noise occurs, note the driving condi-
tions and the speed range.
BEARING NOISE (DRIVE PINION AND
DIFFERENTIAL)
Defective bearings produce a rough growl that is
constant in pitch and varies with the speed of vehi-
cle. Being aware of this will enable a technician to
separate bearing noise from gear noise.
Drive pinion bearing noise that results from defec-
tive or damaged bearings can usually be identified by
its constant, rough sound. Drive pinion front bearing
is usually more pronounced during a coast condition.
Drive pinion rear bearing noise is more pronounced
during a drive condition. The drive pinion bearings
are rotating at a higher rate of speed than either the
differential side bearings or the axle shaft bearing.
Differential side bearing noise will usually produce
a constant, rough sound. The sound is much lower in
frequency than the noise caused by drive pinion bear-
ings.
Bearing noise can best be detected by road testing
the vehicle on a smooth road (black top). However, it
is easy to mistake tire noise for bearing noise. If a
doubt exists, the tire treads should be examined for
irregularities that often causes a noise that resem-
bles bearing noise.
ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION NOISE
Sometimes noise that appears to be in the driv-
eline module assembly is actually caused by the
engine or the transmission. To identify the true
source of the noise, note the approximate vehicle
speed and/or RPM when the noise is most noticeable.
Stop the vehicle next to a flat brick or cement wall
(this will help reflect the sound). Place the transaxle
inNEUTRAL. Accelerate the engine slowly up
through the engine speed that matches the vehicle
speed noted when the noise occurred. If the same
noise is produced, it usually indicates that the noise
is being caused by the engine or transaxle.
3 - 28 REAR DRIVELINE MODULERS
REAR DRIVELINE MODULE (Continued)

HEADLAMP UNIT
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the three retaining screws (Fig. 11).
(3) Disconnect the wiring harness from the bulbs
(Fig. 12).(4) Remove wire harness retainer from back of
headlamp unit.
(5) Remove the headlamp unit.INSTALLATION
(1) Reconnect wire harness to the bulbs.
(2) Install wire harness retainer to headlamp unit.
(3) Install the three retaining screws.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
ADJUSTMENT
HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT PREPARATION
(1) Verify headlamp dimmer switch and high beam
indicator operation.
(2) Inspect and correct damaged or defective com-
ponents that could interfere with proper headlamp
alignment.
(3) Verify proper tire inflation.
(4) Clean headlamp lenses.
(5) Verify that luggage area is loaded as the vehi-
cle is routinely used.
(6) Fuel tank should be FULL. Add 2.94 kg (6.5
lbs.) of weight over the fuel tank for each estimated
gallon of missing fuel.
ALIGNMENT SCREEN PREPARATION
(1) Position vehicle on a level surface perpendicu-
lar to a flat wall 7.62 meters (25 ft.) away from front
of headlamp lens (Fig. 13).
(2) If necessary, tape a line on the floor 7.62
meters (25 ft.) away from and parallel to the wall.
(3) Rock vehicle side-to-side three times and allow
suspension to stabilize.
(4) Jounce front suspension three times by pushing
downward on front bumper and releasing.
(5) Measure the distance from the center of head-
lamp lens to the floor. Transfer measurement to the
alignment screen (with tape). Use this line for
up/down adjustment reference.
Fig. 11 HEADLAMP FASTENERS
1 - HEADLAMP RETAINING SCREW
2 - HEADLAMP UNIT
Fig. 12 HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY
1 - HEADLAMP UNIT
2 - HEADLAMP BULB
3 - PARK/TURN SIGNAL BULB
4 - WIRE HARNESS RETAINER
8L - 12 LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIORRS

HEADLAMP UNIT
ADJUSTMENT
HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT PREPARATION
(1) Verify headlamp dimmer switch and high beam
indicator operation.
(2) Verify that the headlamp leveling switch is in
the ª0º position.
(3) Inspect and correct damaged or defective com-
ponents that could interfere with proper headlamp
alignment.
(4) Verify proper tire inflation.
(5) Clean headlamp lenses.
(6) Verify that luggage area is loaded as the vehi-
cle is routinely used.
(7) Fuel tank should be FULL. Add 2.94 kg (6.5
lbs.) of weight over the fuel tank for each estimated
gallon of missing fuel.
ALIGNMENT SCREEN PREPARATION
(1) Position vehicle on a level surface perpendicu-
lar to a flat wall 10 meters (32.8 ft.) away from front
of headlamp lens (Fig. 8).
(2) If necessary, tape a line on the floor 10 meters
(32.8 ft.) away from and parallel to the wall.
(3) Rock vehicle side-to-side three times and allow
suspension to stabilize.
(4) Jounce front suspension three times by pushing
downward on front bumper and releasing.
(5) Measure the distance from the center of head-
lamp lens to the floor. Transfer measurement to the
alignment screen (with tape). Use this line for
up/down adjustment reference.
HEADLAMP ADJUSTMENT
The low beam headlamp will project on the screen
upper edge of the beam (cut-off) at the horizontal
lamp centerline   20 mm (0.75 in.). The high beam
pattern should be correct when the low beams are
aligned properly (Fig. 9). To adjust headlamp align-
ment, rotate adjustment screws to achieve the speci-
fied low beam cut-off location.
Fig. 8 HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT SCREEN
1 - CENTER OF VEHICLE
2 - CENTER OF HEADLAMPS
3 - 15É CUT-OFF LINE
4 - FRONT OF HEADLAMP5 - 10 METERS (32.8 FT.)
6 - HORIZONTAL CUT-OFF LINE
7 - 110 mm (4.3 in.)
8La - 6 LAMPSRG

RESTRAINTS
DESCRIPTION - SIDE IMPACT AIRBAG
SYSTEM
Vehicles equipped with the Side Impact Airbag
System utilize two airbags mounted to each front
seat back frame. This system is designed to protect
occupants in the event of a side impact collision. The
individual seat airbags are not serviceable. If
deployed or defective, the entire seat back assembly
must be replaced.
OPERATION - SIDE IMPACT AIRBAG SYSTEM
The Side Impact Airbag Control Module (SIACM)
controls the seat back mounted airbags. If the
SIACM determines the impact is severe enough, the
appropriate airbag will inflate, tearing open the front
seat back trim cover protecting the passengers. Once
a seat back mounted airbag has been deployed, the
complete seat back assembly and all damaged parts
must be replaced.
WARNINGS
WARNING: THIS SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE, COM-
PLEX ELECTRO±MECHANICAL UNIT. DISCONNECT
AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE
BEFORE BEGINNING AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPO-
NENT REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION PROCEDURES.
THIS WILL DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAIL-
URE TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
ALLOW SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE FOR
TWO MINUTES BEFORE REMOVING AIRBAG COM-
PONENTS.
DO NOT PLACE AN INTACT UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG
FACE DOWN ON A SOLID SURFACE, THE AIRBAG
WILL PROPEL INTO THE AIR IF ACCIDENTALLY
DEPLOYED AND COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL
INJURY. WHEN CARRYING OR HANDLING AN
UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG MODULE, THE TRIM SIDEOF THE AIRBAG SHOULD BE POINTING AWAY
FROM THE BODY TO MINIMIZE POSSIBILITY OF
INJURY IF ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OCCURS.
REPLACE AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPONENTS WITH
MOPARž REPLACEMENT PARTS. SUBSTITUTE
PARTS MAY APPEAR INTERCHANGEABLE, BUT
INTERNAL DIFFERENCES MAY RESULT IN INFE-
RIOR OCCUPANT PROTECTION.
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, RUBBER GLOVES, AND
LONG SLEEVED CLOTHING WHEN CLEANING
POWDER RESIDUE FROM VEHICLE AFTER AIRBAG
DEPLOYMENT. SODIUM HYDROXIDE POWDER
RESIDUE EMITTED FROM A DEPLOYED AIRBAG
CAN CAUSE SKIN IRRITATION. FLUSH AFFECTED
AREA WITH COOL WATER IF IRRITATION IS EXPE-
RIENCED. IF NASAL OR THROAT IRRITATION IS
EXPERIENCED, EXIT THE VEHICLE FOR FRESH AIR
UNTIL THE IRRITATION CEASES. IF IRRITATION
CONTINUES, SEE A PHYSICIAN.
DO NOT USE A REPLACEMENT AIRBAG THAT IS
NOT IN THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING, IMPROPER
DEPLOYMENT AND PERSONAL INJURY CAN
RESULT.
THE FACTORY INSTALLED FASTENERS, SCREWS
AND BOLTS USED TO FASTEN AIRBAG COMPO-
NENTS HAVE A SPECIAL COATING AND ARE SPE-
CIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM.
DO NOT USE SUBSTITUTE FASTENERS, USE ONLY
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT FASTENERS LISTED IN THE
PARTS CATALOG WHEN FASTENER REPLACE-
MENT IS REQUIRED.
CAUTION:
Deployed Front Air Bags may or may not have live
pyrotechnic material within the air bag inflator. Do
not dispose of 2001 Model Year Driver and Passen-
ger Airbags unless you are sure of complete
deployment. Please refer to the Hazardous Sub-
stance Control System for Proper Disposal. Dispose
of deployed air bags in a manner consistent with
state, provincial, local, and federal regulations.
8O - 2 RESTRAINTSRS

AIRBAG SQUIB STATUS
(1) Using a DRBIIItread Airbag DTC's
Ifthe following active codes are present:
DTC CONDITIONS ACTIVE SQUIB
Driver Squib 1 openAND IFthe stored minutes for both are within 15
minutes of each other, both Driver Squib 1 and 2 were
used.Both Driver Squib 1 and
2 were used.
Driver Squib 2 open
Driver Squib 1 openAND IFthe stored minutes for Driver Squib 2 open is
GREATER than the stored minutes for Driver Squib 1
by 15 minutes or more.Driver Squib 1 was used;
Driver Squib 2 is live.
Driver Squib 2 open
Driver Squib 1 openAND IFthe stored minutes for Driver Squib 1 open is
GREATER than the stored minutes for Driver Squib 2
by 15 minutes or more.Driver Squib 1 is live;
Driver Squib 2 was used.
Driver Squib 2 open
IfDriver Squib 1 open is
an active codeAND IFDriver Squib 2 open is NOT an active code.Driver Squib 1 was used;
Driver Squib 2 is live.
IfDriver Squib 2 open is
an active codeAND IFDriver Squib 1 open is NOT an active code.Driver Squib 1 is live;
Driver Squib 2 was used.
Ifneither of the following codes is an active code:
DTC ACTIVE SQUIB
Driver squib 1 open
Status of Airbag is
Unknown.
Driver squib 2 open
NOTE: If the Driver/Passenger Airbag is defective
and not deployed, refer to DaimlerChrysler Motors
Corporation current return policies for proper han-
dling procedures.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AIRBAG SYSTEM
(1) Connect a DRBIIItscan tool to the Data Link
Connector (DLC), located at left side of the steering
column and at the lower edge of the lower instru-
ment panel.
(2) Turn the ignition key to ON position. Exit vehi-
cle with scan tool. Use the latest version of the
proper cartridge.
(3) After checking that no one is inside the vehicle,
connect the battery negative terminal.
(4) Using the DRBIIItscan tool, read and record
active diagnostic code data.
(5) Read and record any stored diagnostic codes.
(6) Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic Procedures
manual if any diagnostic codes are found in Step 4 or
Step 5.
(7) Erase stored diagnostic codes if there are no
active diagnostic codes. If problems remain, diagnos-
tic codes will not erase. Refer to the Proper Body
Diagnostic Procedures Manual to diagnose the prob-
lem.If airbag warning lamp either fails to light,
or goes on and stays on, there is a system mal-function. Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic
Procedures manual to diagnose the problem.
CLOCK SPRING
DESCRIPTION
The clock spring is screwed to a plastic mounting
platform on the steering column behind the steering
wheel. The clock spring is used to maintain a contin-
uous electrical circuit between the wiring harness
and the drivers airbag.
OPERATION
This assembly consists of a flat ribbon like electri-
cally conductive tape which winds and unwinds with
the steering wheel rotation. The clock spring cannot
be repaired. If the clock spring is faulty, damaged, or
if the airbag has been deployed, the clock spring
must be replaced.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCK SPRING
CENTERING
If the rotating tape (wire coil) in the clock spring is
not positioned properly with the steering wheel and
the front wheels, the clock spring may fail. The fol-
lowing procedure MUST BE USED to center the
clock spring if it is not known to be properly posi-
tioned, or if the front wheels were moved from the
straight ahead position.
(1) Adjust the steering wheel so that the tires are
in a straight ahead position.
(2) Remove Driver Airbag from steering wheel.
(3) Disconnect wire connectors from back of airbag.
RSRESTRAINTS8O-3
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

REMOVAL
DEPLOYED AIRBAG
(1) Clean powder residue from interior of vehicle.
Refer to Electrical, Restraints, Passenger Airbag,
Standard Procedure - Passenger Airbag Clean Up.
(2) Remove instrument panel. Refer to Body,
Instrument Panel, Removal.
(3) Remove all reusable components from the
upper instrument panel and transfer to the new
instrument panel.
UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG
(1) Remove instrument panel. Refer to Body,
Instrument Panel, Removal.
(2) De-trim the instrument panel enough to gain
access to the passenger airbag fasteners.
(3) Disconnect yellow wire connector from passen-
ger airbag.
(4) Remove three bolts to the passenger airbag.
(5) Remove airbag from instrument panel through
rear of instrument panel.
INSTALLATION
DEPLOYED AIRBAG
Transfer all reusable components to the new
instrument panel.
(1) Install new Passenger Airbag into instrument
panel.
(2) Install airbag attaching bolts to the instrument
panel.
(3) Connect yellow wire connector from passenger
airbag.
(4) Install Instrument panel. Refer to Body, Instru-
ment Panel, Installation.
WARNING: DO NOT CONNECT THE BATTERY NEG-
ATIVE CABLE. REFER TO ELECTRICAL,
RESTRAINTS, DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AIRBAG
SYSTEM FIRST.
UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG
(1) Install Passenger Airbag into instrument panel.
(2) Install airbag attaching bolts to the instrument
panel.
(3) Connect yellow wire connector from passenger
airbag.
(4) Install Instrument panel. Refer to Body, Instru-
ment Panel, Installation.
WARNING: DO NOT CONNECT THE BATTERY NEG-
ATIVE CABLE. REFER TO ELECTRICAL,
RESTRAINTS, DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AIRBAG
SYSTEM FIRST.
SEAT AIRBAG
DESCRIPTION
The side impact airbag system Seat Airbags are
located in the outboard side of the front seat backs.
One in each front seat. The seat airbag inflator
assembly is within the airbag housing (Fig. 1). Each
airbag is mounted to the seat back frame. If deployed
or defective, the entire seat back assembly must be
replaced.
OPERATION
Only the Side Impact Airbag Control Module
(SIACM) can deploy the side airbags. When supplied
with the proper electrical signal, the seat airbag
inflator will produce a gas and discharge the bag
directly between the occupant and the side of the
vehicle, protecting the occupant. Upon deployment,
the seat back trim cover will tear open and allow the
side airbag to fully inflate and quickly deflate.
SEAT BELT OUTBOARD
FRONT
REMOVAL
Inspect the condition of the shoulder belt and lap
belt. Replace any belt that is cut, frayed, torn, or
damaged in any way. Also, replace the shoulder belt
if the retractor is either damaged or inoperative.
(1) Remove shoulder harness height adjuster knob
by pulling it straight away from adjuster.
Fig. 1 SEAT AIRBAG - TYPICAL
RSRESTRAINTS8O-7
PASSENGER AIRBAG (Continued)

MopartGasket Sealant in an aerosol can should be
applied using a thin, even coat sprayed completely
over both surfaces to be joined, and both sides of a
gasket. Then proceed with assembly. Material in a
can w/applicator can be brushed on evenly over the
sealing surfaces. Material in an aerosol can should be
used on engines with multi-layer steel gaskets.
STANDARD PROCEDURES - ENGINE GASKET
SURFACE PREPARATION
To ensure engine gasket sealing, proper surface
preparation must be performed, especially with the
use of aluminum engine components and multi-layer
steel cylinder head gaskets.
Neveruse the following to clean gasket surfaces:
²Metal scraper
²Abrasive pad or paper to clean cylinder block
and head
²High speed power tool with an abrasive pad or a
wire brush (Fig. 3)
NOTE: Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gaskets require
a scratch free sealing surface.
Only use the following for cleaning gasket surfaces:
²Solvent or a commercially available gasket
remover
²Plastic or wood scraper (Fig. 3)
²Drill motor with 3M RolocyBristle 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 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 metricscale 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 clearance measurements to specs found in
engine specifications (Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECI-
FICATIONS).Plastigage generally is accompa-
nied by two scales. One scale is in inches, the
other is a metric scale.
Fig. 3 PROPER TOOL USAGE FOR SURFACE
PREPARATION
1 - ABRASIVE PAD
2 - 3M ROLOCYBRISTLE DISC
3 - PLASTIC/WOOD SCRAPER
Fig. 4 Plastigage Placed in Lower ShellÐTypical
1 - PLASTIC GAUGE
RSENGINE 2.4L9-11
ENGINE 2.4L (Continued)

the cylinder in question.The recommended com-
pression pressures are to be used only as a
guide to diagnosing engine problems. An engine
should not be disassembled to determine the
cause of low compression unless some malfunc-
tion is present.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CYLINDER
COMBUSTION PRESSURE LEAKAGE
The combustion pressure leakage test provides an
accurate means for determining engine condition.
Combustion pressure leakage testing will detect:
²Exhaust and intake valve leaks (improper seat-
ing).
²Leaks between adjacent cylinders or into water
jacket.
²Any causes for combustion/compression pressure
loss.
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP
WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE
BECAUSE SERIOUS BURNS FROM COOLANT CAN
OCCUR.
Check the coolant level and fill as required. DO
NOT install the radiator cap.
Start and operate the engine until it attains nor-
mal operating temperature, then turn the engine
OFF.
Clean spark plug recesses with compressed air.
Remove the spark plugs.
Remove the oil filler cap.
Remove the air cleaner.
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 radiator 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 - 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 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 clearance measurements to specs found in
engine specifications (Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECI-
FICATIONS).Plastigage generally is accompa-
nied 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. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CRANKSHAFT MAIN
BEARINGS - STANDARD PROCEDURE) (Refer to 9
- ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CONNECTING ROD
BEARINGS - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FORM-IN-PLACE
GASKETS AND SEALERS
There are numerous places where form-in-place
gaskets are used on the engine. Care must be taken
Fig. 3 Plastigage Placed in Lower ShellÐTypical
1 - PLASTIC GAUGE
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9-79
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)

reused must be installed in the same position from
which it was removed.
(8) Install the timing chain cover. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/TIMING BELT / CHAIN
COVER(S) - INSTALLATION)
(9) Install the cylinder heads. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD - INSTALLATION)
(10) Install the cylinder head covers. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD/CYLINDER HEAD
COVER(S) - INSTALLATION)
(11) Install the lower and upper intake manifolds.
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE/MANIFOLDS/INTAKE MANI-
FOLD - INSTALLATION)
(12) Install the engine assembly. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE - INSTALLATION)
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. 48). Locate the band clos-
est to the same width. This band indicates the
amount of oil clearance. Differences in readings
between the ends indicate the amount of taper
present. Record all readings taken. Refer to Engine
Specifications (Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICA-
TIONS).Plastigage generally is accompanied by
two scales. One scale is in inches, the other is a
metric scale. If the bearing clearance exceeds
wear limit specification, replace the bearing.
CRANKSHAFT
DESCRIPTION - 3.3L
The nodular iron crankshaft is supported by four
main bearings, with number two position the thrust
bearing (Fig. 49). Crankshaft end sealing is provided
by front and rear rubber seals.
DESCRIPTION - 3.8L
The nodular iron crankshaft is supported by four
main bearings, with number two position providing
thrust bearing location (Fig. 50). Each main bearing
cap has two vertical retaining bolts. The two center
main caps have horizontal bolts to add increased
rigidity to the lower engine block (Fig. 50). Crank-
shaft end sealing is provided by front and rear rub-
ber seals.
Fig. 48 Measuring Connecting Rod Bearing
Clearance
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9 - 109
CAMSHAFT & BEARINGS (IN BLOCK) (Continued)

(2) Alternative Method:
²Support 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. 58). (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. 59) 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.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clear-
ance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for
the specifications you are checking.PLASTIGAGE METHODÐENGINE OUT-OF-VEHICLE
(1) With engine in the inverted position (crank-
shaft up) and mounted on a repair stand, remove
main journal cap.
(2) Remove oil from journal and bearing shell.
(3) Cut Plastigage to same length as width of the
bearing and place it in parallel with the journal axis
(Fig. 58).
(4) Carefully install the main bearing cap and
tighten the bolts to specified torque.
CAUTION: Do not rotate crankshaft or the Plasti-
gage will be smeared.
(5) Carefully remove the bearing cap and measure
the width of the Plastigage at the widest part using
the scale on the Plastigage package (Fig. 59). Refer
to Engine Specifications for proper clearances (Refer
to 9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS). If the clearance
exceeds the specified limits, replace the main bear-
ing(s) with the appropriate size, and if necessary,
have the crankshaft machined to next undersize.
REMOVAL - CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGS
(1) Remove the oil pan. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LU-
BRICATION/OIL PAN - REMOVAL)
(2) Identify main bearing caps before removal.
(3) Remove bearing caps one at a time. Remove
upper half of bearing by inserting Special Main Bear-
ing Tool C-3059 (Fig. 60) into the oil hole of crank-
shaft.
(4) Slowly rotate crankshaft clockwise, forcing out
upper half of bearing shell.
Fig. 58 Plastigage Placed in Lower
1 - PLASTIGAGE
Fig. 59 Clearance Measurement
Fig. 60 Upper Main Bearing Removing/Installing
With Special Tool C-3059
1 - SPECIAL TOOL C-3059
2 - BEARING
3 - SPECIAL TOOL C-3059
4 - BEARING
9 - 114 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGS (Continued)