Dodge Nitro. Manual — part 111

supported by four select fit main bearings with number two serving as the thrust washer location. The six
separate connecting rod throws are an even-firing design which reduces torque fluctuations while a torsional
vibration damper is used to control torsion caused vibration of the crankshaft. Rubber lipped seals are used at
front and rear. The front seal is retained in the oil pump case and the rear seal is retained in a block-mounted
housing.

OPERATION

CRANKSHAFT

The crankshaft transfers force generated by combustion within the cylinder to the flywheel or flexplate.

REMOVAL

CRANKSHAFT - REMOVAL

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 ENGINE 4.0L - Service Information - Nitro

Fig. 179: Connecting Rod to Cylinder Identification
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1. Remove engine from vehicle. See REMOVAL.

2. Remove oil pan. See REMOVAL.

3. Remove oil pickup tube.

4. Remove front timing belt cover. See REMOVAL.

5. Remove timing belt and tensioner. See REMOVAL.

6. Remove crankshaft sprocket. See REMOVAL.

7. Tap dowel pin out of crankshaft.

1 - PAINT MARK OR SCRIBE

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 ENGINE 4.0L - Service Information - Nitro

8. Remove oil pump assembly. See REMOVAL.

9. Remove crankshaft rear oil seal retainer (Refer to REMOVAL ).

10. Remove connecting rod bearing caps. See Fig. 179. See Fig. 179

Fig. 180: Main Bearing Cap Identification
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

CAUTION: Connecting rod bearing caps are not interchangeable and should be

paint marked or scribed before removal to insure correct assembly.
DO NOT use a metal stamp to mark the bearing caps.

WARNING:

Main bearing caps are not interchangeable and should be paint

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 ENGINE 4.0L - Service Information - Nitro

11. Remove main bearing caps (1). Main bearing caps (1) are not interchangeable and are marked to insure

correct assembly. See Fig. 180. See Fig. 181

marked or scribed before removal to insure correct assembly. DO
NOT use a metal stamp to mark the bearing caps.

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 ENGINE 4.0L - Service Information - Nitro