CAMSHAFT & BEARINGS (IN
BLOCK)
DESCRIPTION
The nodular iron camshaft is mounted in the
engine block and supported with four steel backed
aluminum bearings (Fig. 48). A thrust plate, located
in front of the first bearing, is bolted to the block and
controls the camshaft end play (Fig. 48). To distin-
guish camshafts between the 3.3L and 3.8L engines,
a cast-in ring is located between the rear bearing
journal and rear lobe (Fig. 49). The 3.3L engine
application is as-cast only. The 3.8L engine applica-
tion the cast ring is machined off.
OPERATION
The camshaft is driven by the crankshaft through
a timing chain and sprockets. The camshaft has pre-
cisely machined (egg-shaped) lobes to provide accu-
rate valve timing and duration.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the engine assembly from vehicle
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the cylinder heads (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the timing chain and camshaft
sprocket (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/TIM-
ING BELT/CHAIN AND SPROCKETS - REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the hydraulic lifters (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/HYDRAULIC LIFTERS
(CAM IN BLOCK) - REMOVAL). Identify each tappet
for reinstallation in original location.
(5) Remove camshaft thrust plate (Fig. 48).
(6) Install a long bolt into front of camshaft to
facilitate removal of the camshaft.
(7) Remove the camshaft (Fig. 48), being careful
not to damage cam bearings with the cam lobes.
NOTE: The camshaft bearings are serviced with the
engine block.
INSPECTION
(1) Check the cam lobes and bearing surfaces for
abnormal wear and damage (Fig. 50). Replace cam-
shaft as required.
NOTE: If camshaft is replaced due to lobe wear or
damage, always replace the lifters.
(2) Measure the lobe actual wear (unworn area -
wear zone = actual wear) (Fig. 50) and replace cam-
shaft if out of limit. Standard value is 0.0254 mm
(0.001 in.), wearlimitis 0.254 mm (0.010 in.).
INSTALLATION
(1) Lubricate camshaft lobes and camshaft bearing
journals with engine oil.
(2) Install a long bolt into the camshaft to assist in
the installation of the camshaft.
(3) Carefully install the camshaft in engine block.
(4) Install camshaft thrust plate and bolts (Fig.
48). Tighten to 12 N´m (105 in. lbs.) torque.
(5) Measure camshaft end play. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS) If not within specifi-
cations, replace thrust plate.
(6) Install the timing chain and sprockets. (Refer
to 9 - ENGINE/VALVE TIMING/TIMING BELT/
CHAIN AND SPROCKETS - INSTALLATION)
Fig. 48 CAMSHAFT AND BEARINGS
1 - CAMSHAFT
2 - THRUST PLATE
3 - BOLT
4 - CAMSHAFT BEARINGS (SERVICED WITH BLOCK)
Fig. 49 CAMSHAFT IDENTIFICATION
1 - CAMSHAFT - 3.3L ENGINE
2 - CAST-IN RING
3 - CAMSHAFT - 3.8L ENGINE
4 - MACHINED CAST-IN RING
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9 - 115
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CRANKSHAFT MAIN
BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MAIN BEARING
FITTING
Bearing caps are not interchangeable and should
be marked at removal to insure correct assembly
(Fig. 67). Upper and lower bearing halves are NOT
interchangeable. Lower main bearing halves of 1, 3
and 4 are interchangeable. Upper main bearing
halves of 1, 3 and 4 are interchangeable.
Upper and lower number 2 bearing halves are
flanged to carry the crankshaft thrust loads and are
NOT interchangeable with any other bearing halves
in the engine (Fig. 68). All bearing cap bolts removed
during service procedures are to be cleaned and
lubricated with engine oil before installation. Bearing
shells are available in standard and the following
undersizes: 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) and 0.254 mm
(0.010 in). Never install an undersize bearing that
will reduce clearance below specifications.
CRANKSHAFT BEARING OIL CLEARANCE
Inspect the crankshaft bearing journals. (Refer to 9
- ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CRANKSHAFT -
INSPECTION)
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage or the equivalent. The fol-
lowing is the recommended procedures for the use of
Plastigage with the engine in the vehicle or engine
on a repair stand.PLASTIGAGE METHODÐENGINE IN-VEHICLE
NOTE: The total clearance of the main bearings can
only be determined with the engine in the vehicle
by removing the weight of the crankshaft. This can
be accomplished by either of two following meth-
ods:
(1) Preferred method:
a. Shim the bearings adjacent to the bearing to be
checked in order to remove the clearance between
upper bearing shell and the crankshaft. This can be
accomplished by placing a minimum of 0.254 mm
(0.010 in.) shim (e. g. cardboard, matchbook cover,
etc.) between the bearing shell and the bearing cap
on the adjacent bearings and tightening bolts to
14±20 N´m (10±15 ft. lbs.).
²When checking #1 main bearing shim #2 main
bearing.
²When checking #2 main bearing shim #1 & #3
main bearing.
²When checking #3 main bearing shim #2 & #4
main bearing.
²When checking #4 main bearing shim #3 main
bearing.
NOTE: Remove all shims before reassembling
engine.
(2) Alternative Method:
a. Support the weight of the crankshaft with a
jack under the counterweight adjacent to the bearing
being checked.
(3) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
Fig. 67 Main Bearing Cap Identification
Fig. 68 Main Bearing Identification
1 - OIL GROOVES
2 - OIL HOLES
3 - UPPER BEARINGS
4 - LOWER BEARINGS
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9 - 123
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EXHAUST SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
EXHAUST SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXCESSIVE
EXHAUST SYSTEM NOISE...............2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXHAUST
SYSTEM RESTRICTION CHECK...........2
INSPECTION...........................3
ADJUSTMENTS.........................3
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE.............................3
SPECIAL TOOLS
EXHAUST SYSTEM.....................4
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION..........................4
OPERATION............................4
REMOVAL.............................5INSPECTION...........................5
INSTALLATION..........................6
CROSS-OVER PIPE - 3.3/3.8L
REMOVAL.............................6
INSTALLATION..........................6
HEAT SHIELDS
DESCRIPTION..........................6
OPERATION............................7
REMOVAL.............................7
INSTALLATION..........................7
MUFFLER
REMOVAL.............................7
INSTALLATION..........................7
RESONATOR
REMOVAL.............................9
INSTALLATION..........................9
EXHAUST SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
The exhaust system consists of a catalytic con-
verter, muffler, and a resonator with connecting pipes
in-between (Fig. 1). The system is serviced in two
sections; the catalytic converter and pipe, and the
muffler and resonator with connecting pipe. A band
clamp is used to connect the joint between the twocomponents. Three support hanger rods with rubber
isolators are used to support and isolate the exhaust
system. A flexible joint, integral to the catalytic con-
verter, allows for engine movement. On vehicles
equipped with AWD, an additional heat shield is
mounted to the catalytic converter. The exhaust sys-
tem is tuned for each vehicle/powertrain combination.
Fig. 1 Exhaust System - Typical (All Vehicles)
1 - CATALYTIC CONVERTER 4 - SUPPORT - RESONATOR
2 - BAND CLAMP 5 - RESONATOR
3 - SUPPORTS - MUFFLER 6 - MUFFLER
RSEXHAUST SYSTEM11-1
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DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXCESSIVE
EXHAUST SYSTEM NOISE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
EXCESSIVE EXHAUST NOISE
(UNDER HOOD)1. Exhaust manifold cracked or
broken.1. Replace manifold.
2. Manifold to cylinder head leak. 2. Tighten manifold and/or replace
gasket.
3. EGR Valve to manifold gasket
leakage.3. Tighten fasteners or replace
gasket.
4. EGR Valve to EGR tube gasket
leakage.4. Tighten fasteners or replace
gasket.
5. EGR tube to manifold tube
leakage.5. Tighten tube nut.
6. Exhaust flex-joint to manifold
leak.6. Tighten joint fasteners and/or
replace gasket.
7. Exhaust flex-joint. 7. Replace catalytic converter
assembly.
8. Pipe and shell noise from front
exhaust pipe.8. Characteristic of single wall pipe.
EXCESSIVE EXHAUST NOISE 1. Leak at exhaust pipe joints. 1. Tighten clamps at leaking joints.
2. Burned or rusted out muffler
assembly or exhaust pipe.2. Replace muffler resonator tailpipe
assembly or exhaust pipe with
catalytic converter assembly.
3. Burned or rusted out resonator. 3. Replace muffler resonator tailpipe
assembly.
4. Restriction in exhaust system. 4. Perform Exhaust System
Restriction Check. Replace
component as necessary.
5. Converter material in muffler. 5. Replace muffler and converter
assemblies. Check fuel injection and
ignition systems for proper
operation.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
RESTRICTION CHECK
Exhaust system restriction can be checked by mea-
suring back pressure using the DRB IIItand PEP
module pressure tester.
WARNING: THE NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERA-
TURE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS VERY HIGH.
THEREFORE, NEVER WORK AROUND OR ATTEMPT
TO SERVICE ANY PART OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM
UNTIL IT IS COOLED. SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE
TAKEN WHEN WORKING NEAR THE CATALYTIC
CONVERTER. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE CON-VERTER RISES TO A HIGH LEVEL AFTER A SHORT
PERIOD OF ENGINE OPERATION TIME.
NOTE: For Special Tool identification, (Refer to 11 -
EXHAUST SYSTEM - SPECIAL TOOLS).
(1) Disconnect and remove the upstream (before
catalytic converter) oxygen sensor. (Refer to 14 -
FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL INJECTION/O2 SENSOR -
REMOVAL)
(2) Install the Exhaust Back Pressure Fitting
Adaptor CH8519.
(3) Connect the Low Pressure Sensor (15 psi)
CH7063 to the back pressure fitting.
11 - 2 EXHAUST SYSTEMRS
EXHAUST SYSTEM (Continued)
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The combustion reaction caused by the catalyst
releases additional heat in the exhaust system, caus-
ing temperature increases in the area of the reactor
under severe operating conditions. Such conditions
can exist when the engine misfires or otherwise does
not operate at peak efficiency.Do notremove spark
plug wires from plugs or by any other means short
out cylinders, if exhaust system is equipped with a
catalytic converter. Failure of the catalytic converter
can occur due to temperature increases caused by
unburned fuel passing through the converter. This
deterioration of the catalyst core can result in exces-
sively high emission levels, noise complaints, and
exhaust restrictions.
Unleaded gasoline must be used to avoid ruining
the catalyst core. Do not allow engine to operate
above 1200 RPM in neutral for extended periods over
5 minutes. This condition may result in excessive
exhaust system/floor pan temperatures because of no
air movement under the vehicle.
The flex joint allows flexing as the engine moves,
preventing breakage that could occur from the back-
and-forth motion of a transverse mounted engine.
CAUTION: Due to exterior physical similarities of
some catalytic converters with pipe assemblies,
extreme care should be taken with replacement
parts. There are internal converter differences
required in some parts of the country (particularly
vehicles built for States with strict emission
requirements) and between model years.
REMOVAL
(1) Loosen clamp and disconnect the muffler/reso-
nator assembly from catalytic converter pipe.
(2) Disconnect downstream oxygen sensor electri-
cal connector (Fig. 4). For removal of downstream
oxygen sensor, (Refer to 14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL
INJECTION/O2 SENSOR - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove catalytic converter to exhaust manifold
attaching fasteners (Fig. 5).
(4) Remove catalytic converter and gasket (Fig. 5).
INSPECTION
WARNING: THE NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERA-
TURE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS VERY HIGH.
THEREFORE, NEVER ATTEMPT TO SERVICE ANY
PART OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM UNTIL IT IS
COOLED. SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN
WHEN WORKING NEAR THE CATALYTIC CON-
VERTER. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE CONVERTER
RISES TO A HIGH LEVEL AFTER A SHORT PERIOD
OF ENGINE OPERATION TIME.Check catalytic converter for a flow restriction.
(Refer to 11 - EXHAUST SYSTEM - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING) Exhaust System Restriction Check
for procedure.
Fig. 4 Downstream Oxygen Sensor
1 - OXYGEN SENSOR CONNECTOR
2 - CATALYTIC CONVERTER
3 - DOWNSTREAM OXYGEN SENSOR
4 - ENGINE HARNESS CONNECTOR
Fig. 5 Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Manifold
1 - FLAG NUT
2 - GASKET
3 - BOLT
4 - CATALYTIC CONVERTER
RSEXHAUST SYSTEM11-5
CATALYTIC CONVERTER (Continued)
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(5) Install the six screws attaching rear fascia to
rear fascia brackets.
(6) Install the four plastic push pins attaching bot-
tom of rear fascia to fascia support.
(7) Lower vehicle.
(8) Install the two screws attaching the upper fas-
cia to the fascia support.
REAR BUMPER
REINFORCEMENT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove rear bumper fascia. (Refer to 13 -
FRAMES & BUMPERS/BUMPERS/REAR FASCIA -
REMOVAL)
(2) Support rear bumper reinforcement on a suit-
able lifting device.
(3) Remove the six nuts attaching rear bumper
reinforcement to frame rail extensions (Fig. 4).
(4) Remove rear bumper reinforcement from vehi-
cle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Support rear bumper reinforcement using a
suitable lifting device to lift into position.
(2) Position rear bumper reinforcement on vehicle.(3) Install the six nuts attaching rear bumper rein-
forcement to frame rail extensions and tighten to 27
N´m (20 ft. lbs.) torque (Fig. 4).
(4) Install rear bumper fascia. (Refer to 13 -
FRAMES & BUMPERS/BUMPERS/REAR FASCIA -
INSTALLATION).
REAR FASCIA - SCUFF PAD
REMOVAL
The scuff pad may not be salvageable during the
removal process. The scuff pad should be replaced if
damaged or broken. Check availability before servic-
ing. The scuff pad serviceability is improved if the
rear fascia is to be removed for service.
NOTE: If the rear fascia is to be removed for other
service issues or If the scuff pad is to be reused
use the steps below.
(1) Remove rear bumper fascia.(Refer to 13 -
FRAMES & BUMPERS/BUMPERS/REAR FASCIA -
REMOVAL)
(2) Using a trim stick, pry up the rear edge of the
scuff pad while squeezing the rear locking tabs from
underneath the fascia to release the rear edge of
scuff pad from the rear bumper fascia. Pull the scuff
pad up and squeeze the remaining tabs to release the
remaining of the scuff pad. (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3 REAR BUMPER FASCIA
1 - REAR FASCIA
2 - PUSH PINS
3 - REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT
4 - REAR FASCIA BRACKET
Fig. 4 REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT
1 - REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT
2 - FRAME RAIL EXTENSIONS
3 - NUTS
RSFRAME & BUMPERS13-3
REAR FASCIA (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
NOTE: If the rear fascia is to not to be removed for
other service issues use the step below.
(3) Using a trim stick, pry up the rear edge of the
scuff pad to release tabs from the rear bumper fascia
and pull scuff pad to release the forward tabs (Fig.
5).INSTALLATION
(1) Verify that there are fifteen slots in the fascia.
(2) Place scuff pad in position (Fig. 5).
(3) Align and insert the center forward tab.
(4) Align the remaining tabs and press into the
slots, starting in the center and working outboard.
(5) Assure all tabs are fully engaged into the fas-
cia.
(6) If rear bumper fascia has been removed install.
(Refer to 13 - FRAME & BUMPERS/BUMPERS/
REAR FASCIA - INSTALLATION).
FRAME
SPECIFICATIONS
FRAME DIMENSIONS
Frame dimensions are listed in metric scale. All
dimensions are from center to center of Principal
Locating Point (PLP), or from center to center of PLP
and fastener location.
VEHICLE PREPARATION
Position the vehicle on a frame alignment rack,
refer to instructions provided with equipment being
used. Adjust the vehicle PLP heights to the specified
dimension above the work surface (datum line). Ver-
tical dimensions can be taken from the datum line to
the locations indicated were applicable.
INDEX
DESCRIPTION FIGURE
CROSSMEMBER DIMENSIONS 6
ENGINE BOX - TOP VIEW 7
ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND FRAME RAIL - SIDE VIEW 8
FULL VEHICLE - BOTTOM VIEW 9
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Front Cradle Crossmember to Fram Rail Attaching Bolts (4) 163 120 Ð
Reinforcement Plate to Crossmember Attaching Bolt Size M14 (9) 153 113 Ð
Reinforcement Plate to Crossmember Attaching Bolt Size M12 (1) 106 78 Ð
Reinforcement Plate to Crossmember Attaching Bolt Size M10 (4) 61 45 Ð
Rear Engine Mount to Crossmember Attaching Through Bolt 68 50 Ð
Radiator Support Crossmember Attaching Bolts 51 38 Ð
Fig. 5 SCUFF PAD
1 - SCUFF PAD
2 - TABS
13 - 4 FRAME & BUMPERSRS
REAR FASCIA - SCUFF PAD (Continued)
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FRONT CRADLE
CROSSMEMBER
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - FRONT CRADLE
CROSSMEMBER
This vehicle uses a one piece cast aluminum cradle
for the front cradle crossmember. The cradle cross-
member is used as the attaching points for the lower
control arms, stabilizer bar and steering gear. The
cradle also has the power steering hoses and the
chassis brake tubes attached to it.
WARNING: If a threaded hole in the suspension cra-
dle needs to be repaired, only use the type of
thread insert and installation procedure specified
for this application.
The threaded holes in the front cradle crossmem-
ber that are used for attachment of the lower control
arm rear bushing retainer, power steering hose and
chassis brake tubes can be repaired. The repair is
done by the installation of a Heli-Coiltthread insert
which has been specifically developed for this appli-
cation. Refer to the Mopar Parts Catalog for the spec-
ified Heli-Coiltthread insert to be used for this
application. The procedure for installing the Heli-
Coiltthread insert is detailed in the Service Proce-
dures section in this group of the service manual.
DESCRIPTION - FRONT CRADLE
CROSSMEMBER THREAD REPAIR
WARNING: When performing this procedure use
only the thread inserts which are specified in the
Mopar Parts Catalog for this repair procedure.
These thread inserts have been specifically devel-
oped for this application and use of other types of
thread inserts can result in an inferior long term
repair.
The threaded holes in the front cradle crossmem-
ber, if damaged, can repaired by installing a Heli-
Coiltthread insert.
The threaded holes that are repairable using the
thread insert, are the lower control arm rear bushing
retainer mounting bolt holes, routing bracket attach-
ing locations for the power steering hoses, and brake
hose attachment holes.
This repair procedure now allows the threaded
holes in the cradle crossmember to be repaired, elim-
inating the need to replace the cradle crossmember if
damage occurs to one of the threaded holes.The thread inserts for this application are specified
by part number in the Mopar Parts Catalog.Do not
use a substitute thread insert.
The specific tools and equipment required to install
the thread insert are listed below. Refer to the
instructions included with the thread insert for the
detailed procedure used for the installation of the
thread insert.
NOTE: The thread inserts for this application are for
the repair of M8x1.25 and M10x1.5 threads. Be sure
the correct tools are used for the required thread
insert size.
TOOL REQUIREMENT FOR M8x1.25 Thread
²8.3mm (5/16 in.) Drill Bit
²120É Countersink
²Heli-CoiltTap #4863-8
²Heli-CoiltGage #4624-8
²Heli-CoiltHand Inserting Tool 7751-8
²Needle Nose Pliers ± For Removal Of Thread
Insert Driving Tang
TOOL REQUIREMENT FOR M10x1.5 Thread
²10.5mm (25/64 in.) Drill Bit
²120É Countersink
²Heli-CoiltTap #4863-10
²Heli-CoiltGage #4624-10
²Heli-CoiltHand Inserting Tool 7751-10
²Needle Nose Pliers ± For Removal Of Thread
Insert Driving Tang
REMOVAL
The front cradle crossmember must be installed in
the design location to achieve proper front end sus-
pension alignment. If the cradle crossmember is
removed without applying reference marks on the
frame rails, align the cradle crossmember according
to the dimensions provided in this group.
NOTE: If the caged nuts in the frame rails become
damaged and cannot be reused, a replacement nut
can be obtained through MoparT.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(2) Remove steering column lower cover from
instrument panel (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRU-
MENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPENING
COVER - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove steering column cover backing plate
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEER-
ING COLUMN COVER BACKING PLATE - REMOV-
AL).
RSFRAME & BUMPERS13-9
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