Prior to removing the piston and connecting rod assemblies, the cylinder heads, oil pan, and oil pickup must be taken off. First, completely remove the ridge at the top of each cylinder using a ridge reaming tool, following the manufacturer's instructions, as failure to do so may result in piston breakage. After the ridges are removed, turn the engine upside down so the crankshaft is facing up. Before removing the connecting rods, check the endplay with feeler gauges, ensuring the play is eliminated; if the endplay exceeds the service limit, new connecting rods may be necessary. Check the connecting rods and caps for identification marks, and if they are not marked, use a small center punch to create indentations. Loosen each connecting rod cap nut half a turn until they can be removed by hand, then take off the number one connecting rod cap and bearing insert, ensuring not to drop the bearing insert. To protect the crankshaft journal and cylinder wall, slip a short length of plastic or rubber hose over each connecting rod cap bolt before removing the piston. Push the connecting rod and piston assembly out through the top of the engine, using a wooden hammer handle to assist, and if resistance is felt, verify that all ridge material has been removed. Repeat this process for the remaining cylinders, and after removal, reassemble the connecting rod caps and bearing inserts in their respective rods, installing the cap nuts finger tight to prevent accidental damage to the bearing surfaces.
