2002 Ford ZX2 AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Disassembly And Assembly Of Subassemblies: Piston: Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Align the piston-to-connecting rod orientation marks and position the connecting rod in the piston.
  2. Lubricate the piston pin and pin bore with clean engine oil.
  3. Install the piston pin in the piston and connecting rod assembly.
  4. Install the piston pin retaining clips in the piston.
  5. Lubricate the piston and the new piston rings with clean engine oil.
    6. NOTE: The piston compression lower ring should be installed with the "O" mark on the ring face pointing up toward the top of the piston.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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