6.2L piston rod side play

[Curtisje]

While replacing the rear main seal today I noticed that I can 'click' each set of rod mains side to side. Is this normal or do I need to replace the bearing?

 

[dependable]

That is normal. If you think you may need to replace bearings, test oil pressure first.

Don't want to take a good OEM engine apart if it is working fine.

 

[Curtisje]

Thank you dependable.

 

[cucvmule]

Having clearance, as in side to side movement of connecting rods is more when engine is cold. When engine gets hot the connecting rods expand closing up tolerance. Using a feeler gage the clearance is between rods at .007-.025,.

Now that engine is worn that clearance will be more, but the bearing is more critical at the bearing surface to crankshaft surface measurement.

 

[Curtisje]

Thanks cucvmule. I'll be hooking up a pressure gauge like dependable suggested. The engine has 38,000 miles on it. I appreciate your insight.

 

[Curtisje]

That is normal. If you think you may need to replace bearings, test oil pressure first.

Don't want to take a good OEM engine apart if it is working fine.

Hooked up the oil pressure gauge today. 50 PSI cold idle. 25 PSI hot idle. 50-55 while driving. I think everything is ok.