Separating new conrods

On new conrods it is possible that the breaking point is not fully separated. Proceed as follows if the conrod bearing cap cannot be removed by hand:

• To avoid damage, gently clamp conrod in a vice with protection jaws, as shown in illustration.

• Clamp conrod below dashed line.

• Unscrew bolts -arrows- around 5 turns.

• Using a plastic hammer, carefully knock against conrod bearing cap -arrow- until it is loose.

4.6 Measuring radial clearance of conrods

Special tools and workshop equipment required

• Plastigage

»Carry out the following work sequence«

• Remove conrod bearing cap. Clean bearing cap and bearing journal.
• Place a Plastigage corresponding to the width of the bearing on the journal or into the bearing shells.
• Fit conrod bearing cap and tighten to 30 Nm without turning further angle and without rotating crankshaft.
• Remove conrod bearing cap again.
• Compare width of Plastigage with the measurement scale.

Radial clearance:

• Wear limit: 0.08 mm

• Renew conrod bolts.