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:

    Engine - 3.8L
    General Specifications a - 20-200 seconds to leakdown 3.18 mm (0.125 in) with 225 Newtons (50 pounds) load and tappet filled with leak-down fluid. Torque Specifications a - Refer to the procedure in this section b - Advance one-half turn aft ...

    Pedal and Bracket
    Removal 1. Disconnect the battery ground cable (14301). 2. Remove the stoplight switch retaining pin. 3. Slide the stoplight switch (13480) and booster push rod from the brake pedal pin. 4. Remove the brake pedal bracket retaining bolt. 5. Remove the ...

    Utilizing the mediation or arbitration program (Canada only)
    This pertains to vehicles delivered to authorized Canadian dealers. In those cases, where you continue to feel that the efforts by Ford of Canada and the authorized dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of ...