Cylinder Block: Assembly: Piston

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install new snap ring on one side of piston pin hole.
Heat piston to 60 to 70°C (140 to 158°F) and assemble piston, piston pin, connecting rod and new snap ring.
- Align the direction of piston and connecting rod.
- Numbers stamped on connecting rod and cap correspond to each cylinder.
- After assembly, make sure connecting rod swings smoothly.
  
  Fig 1: Locating Identification No On Connecting Rod And Piston
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Set piston rings as shown.
CAUTION:
- When piston rings are not replaced, make sure that piston rings are mounted in their original positions.
- When replacing piston rings, these without punchmarks, present, piston rings can be mounted with either side up.
  
  Fig 2: Locating Piston Grooves
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
- Align piston rings so that end gaps are positioned as shown in the figure.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Piston Rings
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.