(8) Install the upper intake manifold. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/MANIFOLDS/INTAKE MANIFOLD -
INSTALLATION)
(9) Fill the cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOLING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE)
EXHAUST MANIFOLD
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle and disconnect exhaust pipe from
the exhaust manifold.
(2) Disconnect upstream oxygen sensor connector
at the rear of exhaust manifold.
(3) Remove the bolts attaching the manifold to the
cylinder head.
(4) Remove exhaust manifold.
(5) Inspect the manifold. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/
MANIFOLDS/EXHAUST MANIFOLD - INSPEC-
TION)
CLEANING
(1) Discard gasket (if equipped) and clean all sur-
faces of manifold and cylinder head.
INSPECTION
(1) Inspect manifold gasket surfaces for flatness
with straight edge. Surface must be flat within 0.15
mm per 300 mm (0.006 in. per foot) of manifold
length.
(2) Inspect manifolds for cracks or distortion.
Replace manifold as necessary.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install exhaust manifold with a new gasket.
Tighten attaching nuts in the sequence shown in
(Fig. 113) to 19 N´m (170 in. lbs.).
(2) Attach exhaust pipe to exhaust manifold and
tighten fasteners to 37 N´m (27 ft. lbs.).
(3) Install and connect the oxygen sensor. (Refer to
14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL INJECTION/O2 SENSOR
- COMPONENT LOCATION)
TIMING BELT COVER(S)
REMOVAL
FRONT COVER - UPPER
(1) Remove upper timing belt cover fasteners (Fig.
114) and remove cover.
FRONT COVER - LOWER
(1) Remove crankshaft vibration damper (Refer to
9 - ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/VIBRATION
DAMPER - REMOVAL).(2) Remove generator drive belt tensioner assem-
bly (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/
BELT TENSIONERS - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove timing belt front cover bolts (Fig. 114)
and remove covers.
Fig. 113 Exhaust Manifold Tightening Sequence
Fig. 114 Front Timing Belt Covers
1 - BOLTS - UPPER FRONT COVER 6 N´m (50 in. lbs.)
2 - BOLTS - LOWER FRONT COVER 6 N´m (50 in. lbs.)
RSENGINE 2.4L9-63
INTAKE MANIFOLD - LOWER (Continued)
(5) Inserta6mmAllen wrench into the hexagon
opening located on the top plate of the belt tensioner
pulley. Rotate the top plateCOUNTERCLOCK-
WISE. The tensioner pulley will move against the
belt and the tensioner setting notch will eventually
start to move clockwise. Watching the movement of
the setting notch, continue rotating the top plate
counterclockwise until the setting notch is aligned
with the spring tang (Fig. 127). Using the allen
wrench to prevent the top plate from moving, torque
the tensioner lock bolt to 25 N´m (220 in. lbs.). Set-
ting notch and spring tang should remain aligned
after lock nut is torqued.
(6) Remove allen wrench and torque wrench.
NOTE: Repositioning the crankshaft to the TDC
position must be done only during the CLOCKWISE
rotation movement. If TDC is missed, rotate a fur-
ther two revolutions until TDC is achieved. DO NOT
rotate crankshaft counterclockwise as this will
make verification of proper tensioner setting impos-
sible.
Fig. 125 Camshaft Sprocket Alignment
1 - CAMSHAFT SPROCKET-EXHAUST
2 - CAMSHAFT SPROCKET-INTAKE
3 - 1/2 NOTCH LOCATION
Fig. 126 Timing Belt Installation
1 - CAMSHAFT TIMING MARKS 1/2 NOTCH LOCATION
2 - CRANKSHAFT AT TDC
3 - INSTALL BELT IN THIS DIRECTION
4 - ROTATE CAMSHAFT SPROCKET TO TAKE UP BELT SLACK
Fig. 127 Timing Belt Tension Adjustment
1 - ALIGN SETTING NOTCH WITH SPRING TANG
2 - TOP PLATE
3 - 6mm ALLEN WRENCH
4 - LOCK BOLT
5 - SETTING NOTCH
6 - SPRING TANG
9 - 68 ENGINE 2.4LRS
TIMING BELT AND SPROCKET(S) (Continued)
BALANCE SHAFTS AND
CARRIER ASSEMBLY
DESCRIPTION
The 2.4L engine is equipped with two nodular cast
iron balance shafts installed in a cast aluminum car-
rier attached to the lower cylinder block (Fig. 134).
OPERATION
The balance shafts are driven by the crankshaft
via a roller chain and sprockets. The balance shafts
are connected by helical gears. The dual counter
rotating shafts decrease second order vertical shak-
ing forces caused by component movement.
REMOVAL
BALANCE SHAFTS/CHAIN/SPROCKETS
NOTE: For service procedures requiring only tem-
porary relocation of carrier assembly refer to BAL-
ANCE SHAFT CARRIER procedure below.
(1) Drain engine oil.
(2) Remove the oil pan and pick-up tube (Refer to
9 - ENGINE/LUBRICATION/OIL PAN - REMOVAL).
(3) If replacing crankshaft sprocket, remove oil
pump (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRICATION/OIL
PUMP - REMOVAL).
(4) Remove chain cover, guide and tensioner. Dis-
card pivot screw and adjuster screw. (Fig. 135).
(5) Remove screw retaining balance shaft drive
sprocket (Fig. 136). Remove chain and sprocket.
(6) Using two wide pry bars, work the crankshaft
sprocket back and forth until it is off the crankshaft-
shaft.
(7) Remove gear cover retaining stud (double
ended to also retain chain guide). Remove cover and
balance shaft gears (Fig. 137).
(8) Remove rear cover and balance shafts (Fig.
138).
(9) Remove four carrier to crankcase attaching
bolts to separate carrier from engine bedplate.
BALANCE SHAFT CARRIER
The following components will remain intact dur-
ing carrier removal: Gear cover, gears, balance shafts
and the rear cover (Fig. 134).
(1) Drain engine oil.
(2) Remove the oil pan and pick-up tube (Refer to
9 - ENGINE/LUBRICATION/OIL PAN - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove chain cover, guide and tensioner (Fig.
135).
(4) Remove screw retaining balance shaft drive
sprocket (Fig. 136).
(5) Move balance shaft inboard through drive
chain sprocket. Sprocket will hang in lower chain
loop.
(6) Remove carrier to crankcase attaching bolts to
remove carrier.
Fig. 133 Timing Belt Tensioner/Bracket Assembly
1 - BOLT
2 - TENSIONER ASSEMBLY
3 - BOLT-INSTALL FOR PROPER ALIGNMENT
RSENGINE 2.4L9-71
TIMING BELT TENSIONER & PULLEY (Continued)
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
OIL CONSUMPTION OR SPARK
PLUGS FOULED1. PCV system malfunction. 1. Check system and repair as
necessary. (Refer to 25 -
EMISSIONS CONTROL/
EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS/PCV
VALVE - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING)
2. Worn, scuffed or broken rings. 2. Hone cylinder bores. Install new
rings.
3. Carbon in oil ring slots. 3. Install new rings.
4. Rings fitted too tightly in grooves. 4. Remove rings and check
grooves. If groove is not proper
width, replace piston.
5. Worn valve guide(s). 5. Replace cylinder head assembly.
6. Valve stem seal(s) worn or
damaged.6. Replace seal(s).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE OIL LEAK
INSPECTION
Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the
engine, particularly at the area of the suspected leak.
If an oil leak source is not readily identifiable, the
following steps should be followed:
(1) Do not clean or degrease the engine at this
time because some solvents may cause rubber to
swell, temporarily stopping the leak.
(2) Add an oil soluble dye (use as recommended by
manufacturer). Start the engine and let idle for
approximately 15 minutes. Check the oil dipstick to
make sure the dye is thoroughly mixed as indicated
with a bright yellow color under a black light.
(3) Using a black light, inspect the entire engine
for fluorescent dye, particularly at the suspected area
of oil leak. If the oil leak is found and identified,
repair as necessary.
(4) If dye is not observed, drive the vehicle at var-
ious speeds for approximately 24 km (15 miles), and
repeat inspection.
(5)If the oil leak source is not positively
identified at this time, proceed with the air leak
detection test method as follows:
²Disconnect the fresh air hose (make-up air) at
the cylinder head cover and plug or cap the outlet on
the cover.
²Remove the PCV valve hose from the cylinder
head cover. Cap or plug the PCV valve outlet on the
cover.
²Attach an air hose with pressure gauge and reg-
ulator to the dipstick tube.
CAUTION: Do not subject the engine assembly to
more than 20.6 kpa (3 PSI) of test pressure.²Gradually apply air pressure from 1 psi to 2.5
psi maximum while applying soapy water at the sus-
pected source. Adjust the regulator to the suitable
test pressure that provides the best bubbles which
will pinpoint the leak source. If the oil leak is
detected and identified, repair per service manual
procedures.
²If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil
seal area, refer to the section, Inspection for Rear
Seal Area Leak.
(6) If no leaks are detected, turn off the air supply.
Remove the air hose, all plugs, and caps. Install the
PCV valve and fresh air hose (make-up air). Proceed
to next step.
(7) Clean the oil off the suspect oil leak area using
a suitable solvent. Drive the vehicle at various
speeds approximately 24 km (15 miles). Inspect the
engine for signs of an oil leak by using a black light.
NOTE: If oil leakage is observed at the dipstick tube
to block location; remove the tube, clean and reseal
using MoparTStud & Bearing Mount (press fit tube
applications only), and for O-ring style tubes,
remove tube and replace the O-ring seal.
INSPECTION FOR REAR SEAL AREA LEAKS
Since it is sometimes difficult to determine the
source of an oil leak in the rear seal area of the
engine, a more involved inspection is necessary. The
following steps should be followed to help pinpoint
the source of the leak.
If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal
area:
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Raise the vehicle.
9 - 84 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
Calibrate the tester according to the manufactur-
er's instructions. The shop air source for testing
should maintain 483 kPa (70 psi) minimum, 1,379
kPa (200 psi) maximum, with 552 kPa (80 psi) rec-
ommended.
Perform the test procedures on each cylinder
according to the tester manufacturer's instructions.
While testing, listen for pressurized air escaping
through the throttle body, tailpipe and oil filler cap
opening. Check for bubbles in the coolant.
All gauge pressure indications should be equal,
with no more than 25% leakage per cylinder.
FOR EXAMPLE:At 552 kPa (80 psi) input pres-
sure, a minimum of 414 kPa (60 psi) should be main-
tained in the cylinder.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - MEASURING
BEARING CLEARANCE USING PLASTIGAGE
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage or equivalent. The follow-
ing is the recommended procedure for the use of
Plastigage:
(1) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(2) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing shell in the cap approximately
6.35 mm (1/4 in.) off center and away from the oil
holes (Fig. 3). (In addition, suspected areas can be
checked by placing the Plastigage in the suspected
area). Torque the bearing cap/bed plate bolts of the
bearing being checked to the proper specifications.
(3) Remove the bearing cap and compare the
width of the flattened Plastigage with the metric
scale provided on the package. Locate the band clos-est to the same width. This band shows the amount
of clearance in thousandths of a millimeter. Differ-
ences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken.
Compare the clearance measurements to specsifica-
tions found in the engine specifications table(Refer to
9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS).Plastigage gen-
erally is accompanied by two scales. One scale
is in inches, the other is a metric scale.
NOTE: Plastigage is available in a variety of clear-
ance ranges. Use the most appropriate range for
the specifications you are checking.
(4) Install the proper crankshaft bearings to
achieve the specified bearing clearances.
FORM-IN-PLACE GASKETS AND SEALERS
There are numerous places where form-in-place
gaskets are used on the engine. Care must be taken
when applying form-in-place gaskets to assure
obtaining the desired results.Do not use form-in-
place gasket material unless specified.Bead size,
continuity, and location are of great importance. Too
thin a bead can result in leakage while too much can
result in spill-over which can break off and obstruct
fluid feed lines. A continuous bead of the proper
width is essential to obtain a leak-free gasket.
There are numerous types of form-in-place gasket
materials that are used in the engine area. Mopart
Engine RTV GEN II, MopartATF-RTV, and Mopart
Gasket Maker gasket materials, each have different
properties and can not be used in place of the other.
MOPARtENGINE RTV GEN IIis used to seal
components exposed to engine oil. This material is a
specially designed black silicone rubber RTV that
retains adhesion and sealing properties when
exposed to engine oil. Moisture in the air causes the
material to cure. This material is available in three
ounce tubes and has a shelf life of one year. After one
year this material will not properly cure. Always
inspect the package for the expiration date before
use.
MOPARtATF RTVis a specifically designed
black silicone rubber RTV that retains adhesion and
sealing properties to seal components exposed to
automatic transmission fluid, engine coolants, and
moisture. This material is available in three ounce
tubes and has a shelf life of one year. After one year
this material will not properly cure. Always inspect
the package for the expiration date before use.
MOPARtGASKET MAKERis an anaerobic type
gasket material. The material cures in the absence of
air when squeezed between two metallic surfaces. It
will not cure if left in the uncovered tube. The
anaerobic material is for use between two machined
surfaces. Do not use on flexible metal flanges.
Fig. 3 Plastigage Placed in Lower ShellÐTypical
1 - PLASTIGAGE
9 - 86 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
MOPARtBED PLATE SEALANTis a unique
(green-in-color) anaerobic type gasket material that
is specially made to seal the area between the bed
plate and cylinder block without disturbing the bear-
ing clearance or alignment of these components. The
material cures slowly in the absence of air when
torqued between two metallic surfaces, and will rap-
idly cure when heat is applied.
MOPARtGASKET SEALANTis a slow drying,
permanently soft sealer. This material is recom-
mended for sealing threaded fittings and gaskets
against leakage of oil and coolant. Can be used on
threaded and machined parts under all tempera-
tures. This material is used on engines with multi-
layer steel (MLS) cylinder head gaskets. This
material also will prevent corrosion. MopartGasket
Sealant is available in a 13 oz. aerosol can or 4oz./16
oz. can w/applicator.
SEALER APPLICATION
MopartGasket Maker material should be applied
sparingly 1 mm (0.040 in.) diameter or less of sealant
to one gasket surface. Be certain the material sur-
rounds each mounting hole. Excess material can eas-
ily be wiped off. Components should be torqued in
place within 15 minutes. The use of a locating dowel
is recommended during assembly to prevent smear-
ing material off the location.
MopartEngine RTV GEN II or ATF RTV gasket
material should be applied in a continuous bead
approximately 3 mm (0.120 in.) in diameter. All
mounting holes must be circled. For corner sealing, a
3.17 or 6.35 mm (1/8 or 1/4 in.) drop is placed in the
center of the gasket contact area. Uncured sealant
may be removed with a shop towel. Components
should be torqued in place while the sealant is still
wet to the touch (within 10 minutes). The usage of a
locating dowel is recommended during assembly to
prevent smearing material off the location.
MopartGasket Sealant in an aerosol can should be
applied using a thin, even coat sprayed completely
over both surfaces to be joined, and both sides of a
gasket. Then proceed with assembly. Material in a
can w/applicator can be brushed on evenly over the
sealing surfaces. Material in an aerosol can should be
used on engines with multi-layer steel gaskets.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE GASKET
SURFACE PREPARATION
To ensure engine gasket sealing, proper surface
preparation must be performed, especially with the
use of aluminum engine components and multi-layer
steel cylinder head gaskets.
Neveruse the following to clean gasket surfaces:
²Metal scraper²Abrasive pad or paper to clean cylinder block
and head
²High speed power tool with an abrasive pad or a
wire brush (Fig. 4)
NOTE: Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gaskets require
a scratch free sealing surface.
Only use the following for cleaning gasket surfaces:
²Solvent or a commercially available gasket
remover
²Plastic or wood scraper (Fig. 4)
²Drill motor with 3M RolocŸ Bristle Disc (white
or yellow) (Fig. 4)
CAUTION: Excessive pressure or high RPM (beyond
the recommended speed), can damage the sealing
surfaces. The mild (white, 120 grit) bristle disc is
recommended. If necessary, the medium (yellow, 80
grit) bristle disc may be used on cast iron surfaces
with care.
HYDROSTATIC LOCKED ENGINE
When an engine is suspected to be hydrostatically
locked, regardless of what caused the problem, the
following steps should be used.
CAUTION: DO NOT use starter motor to rotate the
engine, severe damage may occur.
(1) Inspect air cleaner, induction system and
intake manifold to insure system is dry and clear of
foreign material.
(2) Remove negative battery cable.
Fig. 4 Proper Tool Usage For Surface Preparation
1 - ABRASIVE PAD
2 - 3M ROLOCŸ BRISTLE DISC
3 - PLASTIC/WOOD SCRAPER
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9-87
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
CONNECTING RODS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Metric Standard
Bearing
Clearance0.019-0.065
mm.0.017-0.020 in.
Wear Limit 0.074 mm 0.003 in.
Side Clearance 0.13-0.32 mm 0.005-0.013 in.
Wear Limit 0.38 mm 0.015 in.
PISTONS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Metric Standard
Piston Diameter
3.3L-Measured
39.8 mm (1.567
in) From Piston
To p92.968-92.998
mm.3.660-3.661 in.
Piston Diameter
3.8L-Measured
33.01 mm (1.30
in) From Piston
To p95.968-95.998
mm.3.778-3.779 in.
Clearance in
Bore @ Size
Location (New)-0.005-0.039
mm-0.0002±0.0015
in.
Weight 3.3L 362 5 grams 12.77 0.1764
oz.
Weight 3.8L 426 5 grams 15.03 0.1764
oz.
PISTON PINS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Metric Standard
Type Press Fit in Rod (Serviced as a
Assembly)
Clearance in
Piston @ 21C
(70ÉF)0.006-0.019
mm0.0002-0.0007
in.
Clearance in
Connecting RodInterference Fit
Diameter 22.87-22.88
mm0.9007-0.9009
in.
Length 3.3L 67.25-67.75
mm2.648-2.667 in.
Length 3.8L 71.25-71.75
mm2.805-2.824 in.
PISTON RINGS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Metric Standard
Ring End Gap
To p
Compression
Ring0.18-0.38 mm 0.007-0.015 in.
Second
Compression
Ring0.28-0.57 mm 0.011-0.022 in.
Oil Control
(Steel Rails)0.23-0.78 mm 0.009-0.030 in.
Wear Limit-
Compression
Rings1.0 mm 0.039 in.
Wear Limit-Oil
Control Steel
Rails1.88 mm 0.074 in.
Ring Side
Clearance
To p
Compression
Ring 3.3L0.030-0.080
mm0.0012-0.0031
in.
To p
Compression
Ring 3.8L0.030-0.069
mm0.0012-0.0027
in.
Second
Compression
Ring 3.3L0.030-0.095
mm0.0012-0.0037
in.
Second
Compression
Ring 3.8L0.041-0.085
mm0.0016-0.0033
in.
Oil Ring (Steel
Ring)0.039-0.200
mm0.0015-0.0078
in.
Wear Limit- Top
Ring0.10 mm 0.004 in.
Wear Limit-2nd
Ring0.13 mm 0.005
Wear Limit Oil
Ring Pack0.266 mm 0.009
Ring Width-Top
Compression
Ring 3.3L1.46-1.49 mm 0.0575-0.058 in.
Ring Width-Top
Compression
Ring 3.8L1.175-1.190
mm0.0462-0.0468
9 - 94 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
CHEMICAL TEST METHOD
Combustion leaks into the cooling system can also
be checked by using Bloc-Chek Kit C-3685-A or
equivalent. Perform test following the procedures
supplied with the tool kit.
REMOVAL - CYLINDER HEAD
(1) Drain the cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOL-
ING - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(2) Disconnect negative cable from battery.
(3) Remove upper and lower intake manifolds.
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE/MANIFOLDS/INTAKE MANI-
FOLD - REMOVAL)
WARNING: INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET IS MADE
OF VERY THIN METAL AND MAY CAUSE PER-
SONAL INJURY, HANDLE WITH CARE.
(4) Remove the cylinder head covers. (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD/CYLINDER HEAD
COVER(S) - REMOVAL)
(5) Remove the spark plugs from cylinder head.(6) Remove the dipstick and tube (Fig. 18).
(7) Remove exhaust manifold(s). (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/MANIFOLDS/EXHAUST MANIFOLD -
REMOVAL)
(8) Remove rocker arm and shaft assemblies.(Refer
to 9 - ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD/ROCKER ARMS -
REMOVAL) Remove push rods andmark positions
to ensure installation in original locations.
(9) Remove the eight head bolts from each cylinder
head and remove cylinder heads (Fig. 22).
CLEANING
To ensure engine gasket sealing, proper surface
preparation must be performed, especially with the
use of aluminum engine components and multi-layer
steel cylinder head gaskets.
NOTE: Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gaskets require
a scratch free sealing surface.
Fig. 17 Cylinder Head and Components
1 - VALVE LOCKS 5 - SPRING SEATS
2 - RETAINERS 6 - CYLINDER HEAD
3 - VALVE SPRINGS 7 - VALVE - EXHAUST
4 - VALVE STEM SEALS 8 - VALVE - INTAKE
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9 - 103
CYLINDER HEAD (Continued)