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:

    Jacking
    WARNING: Never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire. The wheel still on the ground could cause the vehicle to move. CAUTION: The jack (17080) provided with the vehicle is intended to be used in an emergency for changing ...

    Removal
    CAUTION: Since the engine is not free-wheeling, timing procedures must be followed exactly or piston and valve damage can occur. 1. Remove the engine front cover. For additional information, refer to Engine Front Cover in this section. 2. Remove the cranksh ...

    Input Shaft and Bearing
    Special Tool(s) Input Shaft Seal Replacer 308-220 (T94P-7025-AH) Pinion Bearing Cone Remover 205-D002 (D79L-4621-A) or Equivalent Disassembly 1. Using the special tool and a press, remove the input bearing (7025). 2. Remove t ...