Prior to removing the piston and connecting rod assemblies, the cylinder head and oil pan must be taken off. First, check for any ridge formation at the upper limit of ring travel in each cylinder, which should be removed with a ridge reamer if present to prevent piston breakage. After removing the ridges, position the engine with the crankshaft facing up. Check the connecting rod endplay using feeler gauges, ensuring it falls within the specified limits; if it exceeds these limits, new connecting rods may be necessary. Identify the connecting rods and caps clearly to avoid mixing them up, and loosen the connecting rod cap bolts gradually. Remove the first connecting rod cap and bearing insert, then push the connecting rod/piston assembly out through the top of the engine, ensuring all ridge material has been removed. Repeat this for the remaining cylinders, and reassemble the connecting rod caps and bearing inserts loosely to protect the bearing surfaces. For piston ring installation, check the ring end gaps and ensure the piston ring side clearance is correct. Insert the top ring into the first cylinder, measure the end gap with feeler gauges, and adjust if necessary. Install the oil control ring first, followed by the middle and top rings, ensuring proper orientation. Before installing the piston/connecting rod assemblies, clean the cylinder walls and chamfer the edges. Prepare the bearing inserts without lubrication, ensuring they fit correctly. Position the piston ring gaps appropriately, lubricate the piston and rings, and use a ring compressor for installation. Check the connecting rod bearing oil clearance with Plastigage, ensuring the surfaces are clean and free of oil. If the clearance is not within specifications, verify the bearing sizes and journal diameter. After cleaning off Plastigage, apply a uniform layer of grease to the bearing faces, reinstall the connecting rod and cap, and tighten the new bolts. Repeat for all assemblies, ensuring cleanliness and correct orientation. Finally, rotate the crankshaft to check for binding and recheck the connecting rod endplay, making adjustments as necessary.
Posted by NissanPartsDeal Specialist 
