Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler 3.6 Pentastar Common Problems and Tools

WiseAutoTools.com Summary: We cover a few common problems and tools needed to work on the Pentastar 3.6 engine used in a wide range of Chrysler products today including the Challenger, Ram Truck and Jeep Grand Cherokee just to name a few.

Misfires rattles.

Chrysler seems to be "all in" on the 3.6 Pentastar and to honest we're not too sure of the reason why. I recently spoke with a veteran, 40 year Mopar technician that was just sick over this. He was nearing the end of his career, but he expressed how disappointed he was in the 3.6 due to the many problems they have. The 3.6 seems to be plagued with a multitude of issues. Ticking sounds and check engine lights due to misfires that lead back to roller rocker arms failing. If not taken care of quickly, this problem can quickly lead to damaged camshafts due to rockers hammering the lobes. A tool that has been asked for a lot is a rocker arm removal tool. unlike the 3.7 and 4.7, due to the design of the 3.6 there is NOT a similar tool made for this purpose. Instead we've been selling Timing Chain/Camshaft Holders to aid in servicing the rockers. We have them for the VVT which stands for Variable Valve Timing and for VVL which means Variable Valve Lift. See below.

VVT Dodge 3.6 Pentastar Cam Phaser Locks and Timing Chain Wedges

VVL Dodge Pentastar VVL 3.6 Cam Phaser Locking & T-Chain Holders

Head bolt threads failing.

Aluminum engines are all more prone to having pulled threads and the 3.6 is no exception. One of our best sellers in the last couple of years has been the Time Sert 8313 head bolt thread repair kit. We also have an over-size kit which accepts the original size head bolt. This is used when a competitive brand like Helicoil has failed making the hole too big for the first time repair kit. see the links to both below.

Time-Sert 8313 Chrysler Head Bolt Thread Repair Kit M12x1.5

TIME-SERT 4800 BS Metric Head Bolt Thread Kit 12x1.5 Oversize

Spark plug threads failing?

The most recent inquiries we've had for problems related to the Pentastar 3.6 is for spark plug thread repair. Aluminum threads for spark plugs can fail if the spark plug has been left slightly loose. Cross threading can occur which could happen on any engine. The spark plug size on the Pentastar 3.6 engine is NOT the the common M14x1.25, it is M12x1.25 with a washer seat. Using the incorrect type of insert would result in compression loss and misfire codes. The best thread repair kit for this application is the Time Sert 4212P-WISE. Our kit has the proper tooling, washer seat and stronger material than the original, when installed properly lasts the life of the engine. Time Sert is unique because the thread insert is not only held in with thread locker, but also held from the bottom being expanded. The installation driver which looks like another thread tap, actually threads down and cold rolls the bottom of the insert, expanding it and holding it securely from the bottom. Other competitive brands don't come close to being this precise and effective. Other manufacturer's provide a swedge type tool that they instruct you to hit with a hammer! It's supposed to expand the top of the insert. This method does not work very well, especially considering the expansion and contraction that occurs with heating and cooling cycles and the compression generated from the cylinder. See the kit we recommend linked below.  

Time Sert 4212P-WISE

For even more information, see our main page with many more articles and videos on how to repair stripped threads.

We've been selling specialty tools and aluminum thread repair kits since 2005. Call for assistance in finding the best thread repair kit for your application at 800-734-8665 or provide your details by using our Contact Form.