GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

J 45059 Angle Meter

Removal Procedure

Important: During disassembly, keep the valve train components together and identified in order to install the parts in the original locations.

Perform a compression test. Refer to Engine Compression Test . Record the results before you perform the following repairs:

   • Remove the cylinder heads.
   • Disassemble the valve mechanism.

  1. Remove lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .
  2. Remove the exhaust crossover. Refer to Exhaust Crossover Pipe Replacement .
  3. Remove the valve rocker arms and pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  4. Remove oil level indicator and tube. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 52299  Size: SH
  6. Remove and discard the cylinder head bolts.
  7. Remove the cylinder head and gasket. Discard the gasket.
  8. Clean the mating surfaces of the following items:
  9. • The cylinder head
    • The cylinder block
    • The intake manifold
  10. Clean the cylinder block bolt threads.
  11. If replacing cylinder head, remove the following components:
  12. • Exhaust manifold
    •  Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Left Side .
    • Engine lift bracket
    • Spark plugs

Installation Procedure

  1. If removed, Install the following components:
  2. • Exhaust manifold
    •  Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Left Side .
    • Engine lift bracket
    • Spark plugs

    Object Number: 54362  Size: SH
  3. Place the cylinder head gasket into position over the dowel pins. Ensure that the THIS SIDE UP note is showing.

  4. Object Number: 1369266  Size: SH
  5. Install the cylinder head.
  6. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 826677  Size: SH

    Notice: This component uses torque-to-yield bolts. When servicing this component do not reuse the bolts, New torque-to-yield bolts must be installed. Reusing used torque-to-yield bolts will not provide proper bolt torque and clamp load. Failure to install NEW torque-to-yield bolts may lead to engine damage.

  7. Install the new cylinder head bolts.
  8. Tighten

    1. Tighten the cylinder head bolts a first pass to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).
    2. Tighten the cylinder head bolts a final pass in sequence to 95 degrees using the J 45059 .
  9. Install the intake gasket.
  10. Install the push rods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .

  11. Object Number: 54282  Size: SH
  12. Install the crossover pipe. Refer to Exhaust Crossover Pipe Replacement .

  13. Object Number: 54366  Size: SH
  14. Install the upper and lower intake manifolds. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement or Upper Intake Manifold Replacement .
  15. Connect the negative battery cable.
  16. Install oil level indicator tube and indicator. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .
  17. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .