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:

    Removal
    1. Remove the nuts and position the radio ignition interference capacitors aside. 2. Remove the valve covers. For additional information, refer to Valve Cover RH and Valve Cover LH in this section. 3. Remove the cooling fan. 4. Remove the accessory drive ...

    Assembly
    1. Lubricate the differential side gear thrust washers and the differential side gear journals, and assemble the washers to the gears. Use SAE 75W-140 High Performance Rear Axle Lubricant F1TZ-19580-B or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSL-M2C192-A ...

    Transmission Fluid Cooler
    CAUTION: Whenever a transmission has been disassembled to install new parts, the cooler bypass valve (CBV), all transmission fluid coolers (in tank and auxiliary) and transmission fluid cooler lines must be cleaned and backflushed. Use a suitable the t ...