CAMSHAFT(S)
DESCRIPTION
Both camshafts have six bearing journal surfaces
and two cam lobes per cylinder (Fig. 23). Flanges at
the rear journals control camshaft end play. Provision
for a cam position sensor is located on the intake
camshaft on the rear of the cylinder head. A hydro-
dynamic oil seal is used for oil control at the front of
the camshaft.
OPERATION
The camshaft is driven by the crankshaft via drive
sprockets and belt. The camshaft has precisely
machined lobes to provide accurate valve timing and
duration.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
CAMSHAFT END PLAY
(1) Oil camshaft journals and install camshaft
WITHOUTrocker arms. Install rear cam caps and
tighten screws to specified torque.
(2) Using a suitable tool, move camshaft as far
rearward as it will go.
(3) Zero dial indicator (Fig. 24).
(4) Move camshaft as far forward as it will go.(5) Record reading on dial indicator. For end play
specification, (Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICA-
TIONS).
(6) If end play is excessive, check cylinder head
and camshaft for wear; replace as necessary.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove cylinder head cover (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD/CYLINDER HEAD
COVER - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove camshaft position sensor and camshaft
target magnet (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IGNITION
CONTROL/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR -
REMOVAL).
(3) Remove timing belt (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/
VALVE TIMING/TIMING BELT AND SPROCKETS -
REMOVAL).
(4) Remove camshaft sprockets and timing belt
rear cover (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/
TIMING BELT COVER(S) - REMOVAL).
(5) Bearing caps are identified for location.
Remove the outside bearing caps first (Fig. 25).
(6) Loosen the camshaft bearing cap attaching
fasteners in sequence shown (Fig. 26) one camshaft
at a time.
CAUTION: Camshafts are not interchangeable. The
intake cam number 6 thrust bearing face spacing is
wider.
(7) Identify the camshafts before removing from
the head. The camshafts are not interchangeable.
(8) Remove camshafts from cylinder head.
NOTE: If removing rocker arms, identify for reinstal-
lation in the original position.
CLEANING
Clean camshaft with a suitable solvent.
Fig. 23 Camshafts
1 - CAMSHAFT BEARING CAPS
2 - PLUG
3 - CAMSHAFT
4 - CYLINDER HEAD
5 - CAMSHAFT OIL SEAL
Fig. 24 Camshaft End Play - Typical
RSENGINE 2.4L9-29
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(21) Install the timing belt front covers. (Refer to 9
- ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/TIMING BELT / CHAIN
COVER(S) - INSTALLATION)
(22) Install engine mount support bracket.
(23) Install the oil pan. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LU-
BRICATION/OIL PAN - INSTALLATION)
(24) Install the oil filter.
(25) Install crankshaft rear oil seal. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CRANKSHAFT OIL
SEAL - REAR - INSTALLATION)
(26) Install flex plate. Apply MopartLock & Seal
Adhesive to bolt threads and tighten to 95 N´m (70
ft. lbs.).
(27) Attach transaxle to engine. Tighten attaching
bolts to 101 N´m (75 ft. lbs.).
(28) Install the engine assembly. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE - INSTALLATION)
CRANKSHAFT MAIN
BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MAIN BEARING -
FITTING
For crankshaft specifications (Refer to 9 - ENGINE
- SPECIFICATIONS).
CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGS
The crankshaft is supported in five main bearings.
All upper and lower bearing shells in the crankcase
have oil grooves. Crankshaft end play is controlled by
a flanged bearing on the number three main bearing
journal (Fig. 53).
Upper and lower Number 3 bearing halves are
flanged to carry the crankshaft thrust loads and are
NOT interchangeable with any other bearing halves
in the engine (Fig. 53). All bearing cap bolts removed
during service procedures are to be cleaned and oiled
before installation. Bearing shells are available in
standard and the following undersized: 0.025 mm
(0.001 in.) and 0.250 mm (0.010 in.). Never install an
undersize bearing that will reduce clearance below
specifications. Replace or machine the crankshaft as
necessary to obtain proper bearing clearances.
MAIN BEARING INSTALLATION
(1) Install the main bearing shells with the lubri-
cation groove in the cylinder block (Fig. 54).
(2) Make certain oil holes in block line up with oil
holes in bearings. Bearing tabs must seat in the
block tab slots.
CAUTION: Do not get oil on the bedplate mating
surface. It will may effect the sealer ability to seal
the bedplate to cylinder block.(3) Oil the bearings and journals and install
crankshaft.
CAUTION: Use only the specified anaerobic sealer
on the bedplate or damage may occur to the
engine. Ensure that both cylinder block and bed-
plate surfaces are clean.
(4) Apply 1.5 to 2.0 mm (0.059 to 0.078 in.) bead
of anaerobic sealer MopartBed Plate Sealant to cyl-
inder block as shown in (Fig. 55).
(5) Install lower main bearings into main bearing
cap/bedplate. Make certain the bearing tabs are
seated into the bedplate slots.
Fig. 53 Main Bearing Identification
1 - OIL GROOVE
2 - MAIN BEARINGS
3 - OIL HOLE
Fig. 54 Installing Main Bearing Upper Shell
1 - LUBRICATION GROOVES
2 - OIL HOLES
RSENGINE 2.4L9-41
CRANKSHAFT (Continued)
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(9) After removal, install bearing cap on the mat-
ing rod.
(10) Repeat procedure for each piston and connect-
ing rod assembly.
(11) Piston and connecting rods are serviced as an
assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Before installing pistons and connecting rod
assemblies into the bore, be sure that compression
ring gaps are staggered so that neither is in line with
oil ring rail gap (Fig. 67).
(2) Before installing the ring compressor, make
sure the oil ring expander ends are butted and the
rail gaps located as shown in (Fig. 67). As viewed
from top.
(3) Immerse the piston head and rings in clean
engine oil, slide the ring compressor, over the piston
(Fig. 68).Be sure position of rings does not
change during this operation.(4) The directional stamp on the piston should face
toward the front of the engine (Fig. 65).
(5) Rotate crankshaft so that the connecting rod
journal is on the center of the cylinder bore. Insert
rod and piston assembly into cylinder bore and guide
rod over the crankshaft journal.
(6) Tap the piston down in cylinder bore, using a
hammer handle. At the same time, guide connecting
rod into position on connecting rod journal.
NOTE: The connecting rod cap bolts should not be
reused.
(7) Before installing theNEWbolts the threads
should be coated with clean engine oil.
(8) Install each bolt finger tight then alternately
torque each bolt to assemble the cap properly.
CAUTION: Do not use a torque wrench for second
part of last step.
(9) Tighten the bolts to 27 N´m PLUS 1/4 turn (20
ft. lbs. PLUS 1/4 turn).
(10) Using a feeler gauge, check connecting rod
side clearance (Fig. 69).
(11) Install Balance Shaft Carrier Assembly (Refer
to 9 - ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/BALANCE SHAFT
CARRIER - INSTALLATION).
(12) Install oil pan (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRI-
CATION/OIL PAN - INSTALLATION).
(13) Install cylinder head (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/
CYLINDER HEAD - INSTALLATION).
Fig. 66 Identify Connecting Rod to Cylinder
Fig. 67 Piston Ring End Gap Position
1 - GAP OF LOWER SIDE RAIL
2 - NO. 1 RING GAP
3 - GAP OF UPPER SIDE RAIL
4 - NO. 2 RING GAP AND SPACER EXPANDER GAP
Fig. 68 PistonÐInstallation
9 - 46 ENGINE 2.4LRS
PISTON & CONNECTING ROD (Continued)
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STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE OIL AND
FILTER CHANGE
Change engine oil at mileage and time intervals
described in the Maintenance Schedule. (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTE-
NANCE SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
WARNING: NEW OR USED ENGINE OIL CAN BE
IRRITATING TO THE SKIN. AVOID PROLONGED OR
REPEATED SKIN CONTACT WITH ENGINE OIL.
CONTAMINANTS IN USED ENGINE OIL, CAUSED BY
INTERNAL COMBUSTION, CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO
YOUR HEALTH. THOROUGHLY WASH EXPOSED
SKIN WITH SOAP AND WATER. DO NOT WASH
SKIN WITH GASOLINE, DIESEL FUEL, THINNER, OR
SOLVENTS, HEALTH PROBLEMS CAN RESULT. DO
NOT POLLUTE, DISPOSE OF USED ENGINE OIL
PROPERLY. CONTACT YOUR DEALER OR GOVERN-
MENT AGENCY FOR LOCATION OF COLLECTION
CENTER IN YOUR AREA.
Run engine until achieving normal operating tem-
perature.
(1) Position the vehicle on a level surface and turn
engine off.
(2) Remove oil fill cap.
(3) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
Refer to Hoisting and Jacking Recommendations.
(Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/HOIST-
ING - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(4) Place a suitable drain pan under crankcase
drain.
(5) Remove drain plug from crankcase and allow
oil to drain into pan. Inspect drain plug threads for
stretching or other damage. Replace drain plug and
gasket if damaged.
(6) Remove oil filter. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRI-
CATION/OIL FILTER - REMOVAL)
(7) Install and tighten drain plug in crankcase.
(8) Install new oil filter. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LU-
BRICATION/OIL FILTER - INSTALLATION)
(9) Lower vehicle and fill crankcase with specified
type and amount of engine oil. (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/FLUID TYPES -
DESCRIPTION)
(10) Install oil fill cap.
(11) Start engine and inspect for leaks.(12) Stop engine and inspect oil level.
NOTE: Care should be exercised when disposing
used engine oil after it has been drained from a
vehicle engine. Refer to the WARNING listed above.
OIL FILTER
DESCRIPTION
The engine oil filter (Fig. 88) is a high quality full-
flow, disposable type. Replace the oil filter with a
Mopartor the equivalent.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(2) Position an oil collecting container under oil fil-
ter location.
CAUTION: When servicing the oil filter avoid
deforming the filter can by installing the remove/in-
stall tool band strap against the can to base lock
seam. The lock seam joining the can to the base is
reinforced by the base plate.
(3) Using a suitable filter wrench, turn oil filter
(Fig. 88) counterclockwise to remove.
Fig. 87 Oil Level
1 - ENGINE OIL LEVEL DIPSTICK
Fig. 88 Oil Filter
9 - 54 ENGINE 2.4LRS
OIL (Continued)
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INTAKE MANIFOLD
DESCRIPTION
The intake manifold is a two piece aluminum cast-
ing (Fig. 103) that attaches to the cylinder head with
fasteners. The manifold is a long branch design to
enhance low and mid-range torque
OPERATION
The intake manifold delivers air to the combustion
chambers. This air allows the fuel delivered by the
fuel injectors to ignite when the spark plugs fire.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - INTAKE
MANIFOLD LEAKS
An intake manifold air leak is characterized by
lower than normal manifold vacuum. Also, one or
more cylinders may not be functioning.
WARNING: USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN THE
ENGINE IS OPERATING. DO NOT STAND IN A
DIRECT LINE WITH THE FAN. DO NOT PUT YOUR
HANDS NEAR THE PULLEYS, BELTS OR THE FAN.
DO NOT WEAR LOOSE CLOTHING.
(1) Start the engine.
(2) Spray a small stream of water (Spray Bottle) at
the suspected leak area.
(3) If engine RPM'S change, the area of the sus-
pected leak has been found.
(4) Repair as required.
Fig. 101 Front Crankshaft Seal - Installation
1 - PROTECTOR
2 - SEAL
3 - SPECIAL TOOL 6780
Fig. 102 Crankshaft Sprocket - Installation
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6792
2 - TIGHTEN NUT TO INSTALL
Fig. 103 Intake Manifold - Upper and Lower
1 - UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD
2 - LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD
RSENGINE 2.4L9-59
OIL PUMP (Continued)
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CLEANING...........................113
INSPECTION..........................113
CAMSHAFT & BEARINGS (IN BLOCK)
DESCRIPTION........................114
OPERATION..........................114
REMOVAL............................114
INSPECTION..........................115
INSTALLATION........................115
CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
CONNECTING ROD BEARING
CLEARANCE........................115
CRANKSHAFT
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - 3.3L..................116
DESCRIPTION - 3.8L..................117
OPERATION..........................117
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
CRANKSHAFT END PLAY..............117
REMOVAL............................117
INSPECTION..........................118
INSTALLATION........................118
CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MAIN BEARING
FITTING............................119
REMOVAL - CRANKSHAFT MAIN
BEARINGS..........................121
INSTALLATION - CRANKSHAFT MAIN
BEARINGS..........................121
CRANKSHAFT OIL SEAL - FRONT
REMOVAL............................122
INSTALLATION........................123
CRANKSHAFT OIL SEAL - REAR
REMOVAL............................123
INSTALLATION........................123
CRANKSHAFT REAR OIL SEAL RETAINER
REMOVAL............................124
INSTALLATION........................124
FLEX PLATE
REMOVAL............................124
INSTALLATION........................124
HYDRAULIC LIFTERS (CAM IN BLOCK)
DESCRIPTION........................125
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HYDRAULIC
LIFTERS...........................125
REMOVAL............................126
INSTALLATION........................126
PISTON & CONNECTING ROD
DESCRIPTION........................126
OPERATION..........................126
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FITTING
CONNECTING RODS..................127
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FITTING
PISTONS...........................127
REMOVAL............................127
INSTALLATION........................128PISTON RINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - PISTON RING
FITTING............................130
REMOVAL............................131
INSTALLATION........................131
VIBRATION DAMPER
REMOVAL............................132
INSTALLATION........................132
ENGINE MOUNTING
DESCRIPTION........................133
FRONT MOUNT
REMOVAL............................133
INSTALLATION........................133
LEFT MOUNT
REMOVAL............................134
INSTALLATION........................134
REAR MOUNT
REMOVAL............................135
INSTALLATION........................136
RIGHT MOUNT
REMOVAL............................137
INSTALLATION........................137
LUBRICATION
DESCRIPTION........................137
OPERATION..........................137
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE OIL
PRESSURE.........................137
OIL
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE OIL
AND FILTER CHANGE.................138
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE OIL
LEVEL CHECK.......................139
OIL COOLER & LINES
DESCRIPTION........................140
OPERATION..........................140
REMOVAL............................140
INSTALLATION........................140
OIL FILTER
REMOVAL............................140
INSTALLATION........................140
OIL FILTER ADAPTER
REMOVAL............................141
INSTALLATION........................141
OIL PAN
REMOVAL............................141
CLEANING...........................141
INSPECTION.........................142
INSTALLATION........................142
OIL PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
REMOVAL............................142
INSTALLATION........................143
OIL PRESSURE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION........................143
OPERATION..........................143
REMOVAL............................143
INSTALLATION........................143
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9-75
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DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE DIAGNOSIS - MECHANICAL
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
NOISY VALVES 1. High or low oil level in
crankcase.1. Check and correct engine oil
level.
2. Thin or diluted oil. 2. Change oil to correct viscosity.
3. Thick oil 3. (a) Change engine oil and filter.
(b) Run engine to operating
temperature.
(c) Change engine oil and filter
again.
4. Low oil pressure. 4. Check and correct engine oil
pressure problem.
5. Dirt in hydraulic lifters/lash
adjusters.5. Replace hydraulic lifters/lash
adjusters.
6. Worn rocker arms. 6. Inspect oil supply to rocker arms.
7. Worn hydraulic lifters/lash
adjusters.7. Replace hydraulic lifters/lash
adjusters.
8. Worn valve guides. 8. Replace cylinder head assembly.
9. Excessive runout of valve seats
on valve faces.9. Grind valve seats and valves.
CONNECTING ROD NOISE 1. Insufficient oil supply. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Low oil pressure. 2. Check engine oil level. Inspect oil
pump relief valve and spring.
3. Thin or diluted oil. 3. Change oil to correct viscosity.
4. Thick oil 4. (a) Change engine oil and filter.
(b) Run engine to operating
temperature.
(c) Change engine oil and filter
again.
5. Excessive bearing clearance. 5. Measure bearings for correct
clearance. Repair as necessary.
6. Connecting rod journal
out-of-round.6. Replace crankshaft or grind
surface.
7. Misaligned connecting rods. 7. Replace bent connecting rods.
9 - 80 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
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CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
MAIN BEARING NOISE 1. Insufficient oil supply. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Low oil pressure. 2. Check engine oil level. Inspect oil
pump relief valve and spring.
3. Thin or diluted oil. 3. Change oil to correct viscosity.
4. Thick oil 4. (a) Change engine oil and filter.
(b) Run engine to operating
temperature.
(c) Change engine oil and filter
again.
5. Excessive bearing clearance. 5. Measure bearings for correct
clearance. Repair as necessary.
6. Excessive end play. 6. Check thrust bearing for wear on
flanges.
7. Crankshaft journal out-of-round
or worn.7. Replace crankshaft or grind
journals.
8. Loose flywheel or torque
converter.8. Tighten to correct torque.
OIL PRESSURE DROP 1. Low oil level. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Faulty oil pressure sensor/switch. 2. Replace oil pressure sensor/
switch.
3. Low oil pressure. 3. Check oil pressure sensor/switch
and main bearing oil clearance.
4. Clogged oil filter. 4. Install new oil filter.
5. Worn parts in oil pump. 5. Replace worn parts or pump.
6. Thin or diluted oil. 6. Change oil to correct viscosity.
7. Oil pump relief valve stuck. 7. Remove valve and inspect, clean,
or replace.
8. Oil pump suction tube loose. 8. Remove oil pan and install new
tube or clean, if necessary.
9. Oil pump cover warped or
cracked.9. Install new oil pump.
10. Excessive bearing clearance. 10. Measure bearings for correct
clearance.
OIL LEAKS 1. Misaligned or deteriorated
gaskets.1. Replace gasket(s).
2. Loose fastener, broken or porous
metal part.2. Tighten, repair or replace the
part.
3. Misaligned or deteriorated cup or
threaded plug.3. Replace as necessary.
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9-81
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
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