GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

New Product Information LS3

The purpose of New Product Information is to highlight, or indicate, important product changes from the previous model year.

Changes may include 1 or more of the following items:

    • Torque values and/or fastener tightening strategies
    • Changed engine specifications
    • New sealants and/or adhesives
    • Disassembly and assembly procedure revisions
    • Engine mechanical diagnostic procedure revisions
    • New special tools required
    • A component comparison from the previous year

Torque Values and/or Fastener Tightening Strategies

    • All fasteners and threaded holes on the LS3 engine utilize metric threads.
    • Certain fasteners should not be used again. Bolts, studs, or other fasteners that must be replaced, will be called out in the specific service procedure.
    • The crankshaft balancer bolt is now tightened using a 4 pass method. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications.

New Sealants and/or Adhesives

Sealers and adhesives, as required, are identified within the specific service procedures. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.

Disassembly and Assembly Procedure Revisions

No new disassembly or assembly procedure revisions.

Engine Mechanical Diagnostic Procedure Revisions

All diagnosis on a vehicle should follow a logical process. Strategy based diagnostics is a uniform approach for repairing all systems. The diagnostic flow may always be used in order to resolve a system condition. The diagnostic flow is the place to start when repairs are necessary. For a detailed explanation, refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Engine Mechanical.

New Special Tools Required

Front cover alignment tool EN-48853 is required to align the front cover during the installation procedure.

A Component Comparison from the Previous Year

Production engines use a rivet-type plug replacing the coolant air bleed covers located at the top rear of each cylinder head. To properly repair a leaking plug, remove cylinder head from the engine, remove the plug from the cylinder head and install first design coolant air bleed cover and bolt.