Ford F87Z-6108-HA Piston And Pin Assembly

Before removing the piston/connecting rod assemblies, it is necessary to remove the cylinder head(s), oil pan, and oil pump from the engine. First, run your fingernail along the cylinder wall to feel or look for any ridge around the uppermost limit of ring travel, about 1/4 inch from the top of each cylinder. If the ridges are due to carbon deposits or cylinder wear, they should be machined off with a ridge reamer before attempting to remove the pistons, as leaving the ridges can cause the pistons to break.Once the ridges are removed, position the engine so the ridged area is at the top with the crankshaft positioned appropriately. Use feeler gauges to examine the end-play of the connecting rods; if beyond the service limit, consider replacing them. Components like connecting rods and caps should have identifiable markings; if not, use a hammer and punch to mark them for reassembly. Loosen the connecting rod cap nuts until they can be removed by hand, then carefully remove the number one connecting rod cap and the bearing insert without dropping the insert.When removing the pistons, cover the rod bolts with small pieces of plastic or rubber hose to prevent damage to the crankshaft journal and cylinder wall. Take out the bearing insert, and if necessary, push the connecting rod/piston assembly out from the top of the engine. Repeat this process for the other cylinders, ensuring there is no remaining ridge material. After detachment, replace the connecting rod caps and bearing inserts in their respective rods and tighten the cap nuts slightly to prevent marring the bearing surfaces. It's important not to remove the pistons from the rods to avoid misalignment.

Carefully inspect each piston for cracks around the skirt, at the pin bosses, and at the ring lands.

The arrow on top of the piston must face the front of the engine as the pistons are installed.

Slip a section of plastic or rubber hose over each connecting rod cap bolt.