07 D7 possible crank/connecting rod issue?

[Steep&DeepRider]

Anyone heard from in the motor, sounds like a worn out clutch(coffee grinder)- It does not do it when idling, took head and mag-side jug off, looks to be alot of connecting rod "slop"(feels loose and you can twist it). Jugs and pistons do not look bad at all. Will take off PTO side and motor tonight. Sled has had absolutely no problems and has run flawlessley. Just wondering if anyone has any insight/deja vu?
Nathan

 

[cummins17]

how many miles?

 

[Steep&DeepRider]

miles

It had approx 4000 miles on it. Turned out to be the mag-side connecting rod. I took the case, crank and jugs to IndyDan. He has treated everyone I know that has went to him well and I have NEVER heard a bad thing from him. He knows his stuff. I have my fingers crossed that when I get her back together, she runs as well as she had for the first 3999 miles.

 

[diamonddave]

I'd be happy with that. 4,000 mountain miles, that's like 8,000 flatlander miles. Bottom end seems to be holding up rather well in these sleds.

 

[Steep&DeepRider]

1/2 and 1/2....

Acutally it is about 2000 mountain miles and 2000 flatland miles.
I used to think that too(mountain miles are harder on stuff than trail/ditch miles on flat land). But I do not believe that now. I mean, you lose some of your horsepower going up in elevation(mountains) so that is easier on the crank/connecting rods/drivetrain- but yes you are in full throttle more often too. Another observation is the lighter suspension usually in MTN sleds versus trail sleds..
Back home in MN I am alittle above sea level compared to where I ride in the Mountains, that means I am at full hp, which on this sled seemed like a good 145hp or so...

Its kind of a toss up. I know me personally with this sled, it wore out more back on the trails in MN this year than all 3 years out west with it before... Maybe I am out of my quord but it is something to think about.