GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The ignition system components covered in this section include:

    • Spark plugs
    • Secondary ignition cable routing
        All engines have electronic ignition systems. For diagnosis, repair, and general information about the ignition system, refer first to Engine Controls. If the diagnosis leads to checks of spark plugs or secondary wiring, refer back to this section.
        This section also covers the removal and installation of spark plugs as called for in Maintenance and Lubrication.

The base timing on engines equipped with electronic ignition is preset when the engine is manufactured. No adjustment is possible. Timing advance and retard are accomplished through the PCM with the Ignition Control System and the Knock Sensor System on all engines.

Secondary Wiring (3.1L Only)

Spark Plug Wiring 3.1L


Object Number: 200310  Size: SH
(1)Clip, Harness Assembly
(2)Left Hand Harness Assembly
(3)Clip, Harness Assembly
(4)Cylinder #4
(5)Cylinder #2
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly

Spark Plug Wiring (View B)


Object Number: 200318  Size: SH
(1)Cylinder #3
(2)Left Hand Harness Assembly
(3)Cylinder #2
(4)Cylinder #5
(5)Right Hand Harness Assembly
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly
(7)Cylinder #1
(8)Cylinder #4
(9)Cylinder #6

Spark Plug Wiring (View A)


Object Number: 200323  Size: SH
(1)Right Hand Harness Assembly
(2)Clip, Harness Assembly
(3)Cylinder #1
(4)Cylinder #3
(5)Cylinder #5
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly

The spark plug wiring used with the 3.1L ignition system is a carbon impregnated cord conductor encased in a 7 mm (9/32 in) diameter silicone rubber jacket. The silicone wiring will withstand very high temperatures; and also provides an excellent insulator for the high voltage of the ignition system. The silicone spark plug boots form a tight seal on the plug. Twist the boot one ½-turn while removing. Exercise care when connecting a timing light or other pick-up equipment. Do not force anything between the boot and the wiring, or through the silicone jacket. Make connections in parallel using an adapter. Do not pull on the wire in order to remove a plug. Pull on the boot, or use a tool designed for this purpose. For spark plug wiring components refer to

Spark Plug Wiring 3.1L


Object Number: 200310  Size: SH
(1)Clip, Harness Assembly
(2)Left Hand Harness Assembly
(3)Clip, Harness Assembly
(4)Cylinder #4
(5)Cylinder #2
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly
,

Spark Plug Wiring (View B)


Object Number: 200318  Size: SH
(1)Cylinder #3
(2)Left Hand Harness Assembly
(3)Cylinder #2
(4)Cylinder #5
(5)Right Hand Harness Assembly
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly
(7)Cylinder #1
(8)Cylinder #4
(9)Cylinder #6
, and

Spark Plug Wiring (View A)


Object Number: 200323  Size: SH
(1)Right Hand Harness Assembly
(2)Clip, Harness Assembly
(3)Cylinder #1
(4)Cylinder #3
(5)Cylinder #5
(6)Ignition Coil Assembly
.

Spark Plugs

Notice: This engine has aluminum cylinder heads. Do not remove the spark plugs from a hot engine, allow it to cool first. Removing the spark plugs from a hot engine may cause spark plug thread damage or cylinder head damage.

Tapered seat spark plugs without gaskets are used on both engines. Both engines use a resistor type, platinum tip spark plug. Always replace the plugs with the same spark plug as listed.