Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSDODGE AND RAM2011GRAND CARAVAN V6-3.6LREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISENGINE, COOLING AND EXHAUSTENGINECYLINDER BLOCK ASSEMBLYCRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARINGSERVICE AND REPAIRPROCEDURES
2011 Dodge and Ram Grand Caravan V6-3.6L
Procedures
2011 Dodge and Ram Grand Caravan V6-3.6LSECTION Procedures
Main Bearing Fitting
The upper and lower main bearings are "select fit" to achieve proper oil clearances. Crankshaft main bearing journal diameter grade markings (1) are stamped into the front crankshaft counterweight. These marks are read from left to right, corresponding with journal number 1, 2, 3, 4.
Crankshaft main bearing journal diameter grade markings correspond to specific journal diameters. The chart below identifies the five crankshaft grade markings and their associated journal diameters.
Engine block main bearing journal diameter grade markings (2) are stamped into the left side of the engine block. These marks are read from left to right, corresponding with journal number 1, 2, 3, 4.
Engine block main bearing journal grade markings correspond to specific journal diameters. The chart below identifies the five engine block grade markings and their associated journal diameters.
For upper and lower main bearing selection, obtain the grade identification marks from the crankshaft and engine block. Main bearings are available in five sizes. Upper and lower sizes can be mixed on a journal in order to achieve the desired oil clearance. The chart below identifies the five sizes available and how they should be selected based on crankshaft and engine block grade markings.
The upper main bearing shell (2) and lower main bearing shell (1) are marked with the bearing size (3) on the bearing lining surface. The upper and lower bearings are available in five different sizes and can be mixed on a journal in order to achieve the proper oil clearance.
Upper and lower main bearing shells are available in five sizes. The chart below identifies the five bearing sizes.
NOTE: Crankshaft thrust washers are not selectable and are only available in a single thickness.
Bearing oil clearance can also be determined by using Plastigage or equivalent Cylinder Bore Honing
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.