Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Connecting Rod - Side Clearance

1. Measure the clearance between the connecting rod and the crankshaft. Verify the measurement is within specification.

  • Refer to the appropriate section in Group for the procedure.
  • If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer to the appropriate section in Group for the procedure.

Connecting Rod -Side Clearance

Roller Follower -Inspection

Push rod engines

1. Inspect the roller for flat spots or scoring. If any damage is found, inspect the camshaft lobes and valve tappet for damage.

Push rod engines

OHC engines

OHC engines

Valve Tappet -Inspection

Push rod engines

1. Inspect the hydraulic valve tappet and roller for damage. If any damage is found, inspect the camshaft lobes and valves for damage.

Push rod engines

OHC engines

OHC engines

Valve -Stem Diameter

1. Measure the diameter of each intake and exhaust valve stem at the points shown. Verify the diameter is within specification.

  • Refer to the appropriate section in Group for the procedure.
  • If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer to the appropriate section in Group for the procedure.

Valve -Stem Diameter

    Connecting Rod - Bearing Journal Clearance
    Special Tool(s) Plastigage 303-D031 (D81L-6002-B) or equivalent NOTE: The crankshaft connecting rod journals must be within specifications to check the connecting rod bearing journa ...

    Valve Stem to Valve Guide Clearance
    Special Tool(s) Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture 100-002 (TOOL-4201-C) or equivalent Clearance Gauge, Valve Guide 303-004 (TOOL-6505-E) or equivalent NOTE: Valve ...

    Other materials:

    Exhaust Manifold to Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Tube - Cobra
    Removal and Installation 1. Remove the EGR valve. For addditional information, refer to Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve-Cobra in this section. 2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. 3. Disconnect the exhaust manifold to EGR valve ...

    Sensor Indicator - Rear
    Special Tool(s) Pinion Bearing Cone Remover 205-D002 (D79P-4621A) Axle Bearing/Seal Plate 205-090 (T75L-1165-B) Sensing Ring Replacer 206-041 (T89P-20202-A) Removal 1. Remove the rear axle shaft bearing. 2. Using the special ...

    Sitting in the correct position
    WARNING: Sitting improperly out of position or with the seat back reclined too far can take off weight from the seat cushion and affect the decision of the passenger sensing system, resulting in serious injury or death in a crash. Always sit upright against yo ...