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:

    Transmission (Disassembly)
    Special Tool(s) Holding Fixture, Transmission 307-003 (T57L-500-B) Puller, Bearing 205-D064 (D84L-1123-A) 2 or 3 Jaw Puller 205-D027 (D80L-1013-A) Remover, Mainshaft Bearing 308-058 (T77J-7025-H) ...

    System Flushing - CIII Power Steering Pump
    WARNING: Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil can lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak can ultimately cause loss of fluid, which can result in a loss of power steering assist. 1. Remove the fuel pump fuse from the battery junction ...

    Inspection and Repair After a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Deployment
    WARNING: If the supplemental restraint system (SRS) is being serviced, the system must be deactivated and restraint system diagnostic tools must be installed. Refer to Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in this section. The air bag restraint system ...