To prepare for piston/connecting rod assembly removal, check for ridges at the upper limit of ring travel using your fingernail and, if present, use a ridge reamer to eliminate them before attempting to remove the piston/connecting rod assemblies. Ensure the tool doesn't cut into the ring travel area more than 1/32-inch. Once ridges are addressed, turn the engine upside-down with the crankshaft facing up. Before removing connecting rods, check the side clearance with a dial indicator or feeler gauges, ensuring it falls within the specified limits; excessive clearance may require new connecting rods or crankshaft repair. Mark connecting rods and caps for identification, then gradually loosen the connecting rod cap nuts or bolts and remove them by hand. Remove the connecting rod cap and bearing insert, protecting the crankshaft with hose sections if studs are present. Push the connecting rod/piston assembly out through the top of the engine using a wooden or plastic hammer handle, ensuring any resistance is double-checked for ridge removal. Repeat for remaining cylinders. After removal, reassemble connecting rod caps and bearing inserts in their respective rods, securing cap nuts finger tight, and avoid separating pistons from connecting rods.
