Piston And Connecting Rod - Chrysler 2000 LHS Owner's Manual

LH
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
CRANKSHAFT
DESCRIPTION
The crankshaft is constructed of a forged micro
alloy steel. The six throw, nine counterweight crank-
shaft is supported by four select fit main bearings
with the number three serving as the thrust washer
location (Fig. 4). The select fit identification mark-
ings will be on the rear side of the number nine
(rearmost) counterweight. The six separate connect-
ing rod throws are an even-firing design which
reduces torque fluctuations while a vibration damper
is used to control torsional vibration.
The crankshaft oil seals are a one piece design.
The front seal is retained by the timing chain cover,
and the rear seal in a housing that attaches to the
cylinder block.
OPERATION
The crankshaft transfers force generated by com-
bustion within the cylinder to the flywheel or flex-
plate.
PISTONS AND CONNECTING RODS
DESCRIPTION
The pistons are made of a high strength aluminum
alloy with an anodized top ring groove and crown.
Piston skirts are coated with a solid lubricant for
scuff resistance. The connecting rods are made of
powdered metal with a "fractured cap" design. The
connecting rod attaches to the piston with a full
floating pin retained by lock rings. The piston and
connecting rod are serviced as an assembly (Fig. 5).
OPERATION
The piston and connecting rod is the link between
the combustion force to the crankshaft.
CYLINDER HEAD
DESCRIPTION
The cylinder heads are made of an aluminum alloy
(Fig. 6). The cylinder head features four valves per
cylinder with pressed in powdered metal valve
guides. The cylinder heads provide enclosures for the
timing chain drive, necessitating a unique right and
left cylinder head.
Fig. 5 Piston and Connecting Rod
1 – "F" TOWARD FRONT OF ENGINE
2 – RING COMPRESSOR
3 – SPECIAL TOOL 8189
4 – OIL SQUIRT HOLE
VALVES
DESCRIPTION
The valves are made of heat resistant steel, and
have chrome plated stems to prevent scuffing (Fig.
6). The four valves per cylinder (two intake and two
exhaust) are actuated by roller rocker arms, which
pivot on stationary lash adjusters. All valves use
three bead lock keepers to retain springs and to pro-
mote valve rotation.
OPERATION
The intake valve allows the air/fuel mixture to
enter the combustion chamber. The exhaust valve
allows the burned air/fuel mixture to exit the com-
bustion chamber. Also, the intake and exhaust valves
seal the combustion chamber during the compression
and power strokes.
2.7L ENGINE 9 - 5