[Patrick L.]

I'd recommend measuring the crank [ each surface in 4 places] to make sure its round.

The rod clearance should be checked before installing the pistons or at least before sticking them in the hole.

What has the manufacturer of the pistons said about clearance. Unless he is insistent about the .002" I'd be inclined to install with .005" clearance.

Again, I wouldn't set crank clearance over .002"

Sometimes its hard to separate the shims, so them I sand them on a piece of glass and measure along 3 spots to make sure i sanded them evenly. I keep the shims equal on either side.