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:

    Fluid Pan, Gasket and Filter
    Material Item Specification MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM, XT-5-DM MERCON V 1. Normal maintenance requires periodic automatic transmission fluid changes. If a major repair, such as a clutch, band, bearing, etc., is requir ...

    Keyless Entry/Computer Operated Locks
    Programming -Keyless Entry Remote Transmitter NOTE: All keyless entry remote transmitters (15K601) must be programmed at the same time. NOTE: All previous transmitter identification codes (TIC's) will be erased when programming mode is entered. ...

    Inspection and Verification
    NOTE: If any concerns are noted with the speedometer, stoplamps, or horn, address those concerns by referring to their associated sections before continuing speed control diagnosis. 1. Verify the customer concern by operating the speed control system. 2. Vi ...