GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Special Tools

J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

    Caution: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in the Preface section.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Remove the intake manifold. Refer to Intake Manifold Replacement (VIN 1).
  3. Remove the exhaust manifold.
  4. Remove the arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 42227  Size: SH
  6. Remove the electronic ignition module.
  7. Remove the spark plug wires.
  8. Remove the generator bracket. Refer to Generator Replacement .
  9. Remove the A/C compressor bracket bolt.
  10. Remove the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  11. Remove the belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement (VIN 1).
  12. For VIN 1 engines, remove the supercharger belt tensioner.
  13. Remove the fuel pipe heat shield.
  14. Remove the valve rocker arm assemblies. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  15. Remove the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  16. Remove the cylinder head bolts. Discard the bolts.
  17. Remove the cylinder head.
  18. Clean all of the gasket mating surfaces.
  19. Inspect the cylinder head. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection .

Installation Procedure

    Notice: This engine uses special torque to yield head bolts. This design bolt requires a special tightening procedure. Failure to follow the given procedure will cause head gasket failure and possible engine damage.

  1. Clean the threads in the block. Use a 7/16-14 tap.

  2. Object Number: 26157  Size: SH
  3. Install the head gasket with the arrow pointing to the front of the engine.
  4. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

    Notice: This bolt is designed to permanently stretch when tightened, and therefore MUST be replaced anytime it is removed. The correct part number fastener must be used to replace this type of fastener. Do not use a bolt that is stronger in this application. If the correct bolt is not used, the parts will not be tightened correctly. The system or the components may be damaged.


    Object Number: 38826  Size: SH
  5. Install the new cylinder head bolts.
  6. Tighten

        • Tighten the new cylinder head bolts in sequence to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).
        • Rotate each bolt 120 degrees in sequence. Use the J 36660-A .
  7. Install the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  8. Install the guide plate.
  9. Install the valve rocker arm. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  10. Install the A/C compressor bracket bolt.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 70 N·m (52 lb ft).

  12. Install the generator support bracket to the cylinder head. Refer to Generator Replacement .
  13. Install the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement .
  14. Install the electronic ignition module.
  15. Install the belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement (VIN 1).
  16. Install the spark plug wires.
  17. Install the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  18. Install the fuel pipe heat shield.
  19. Connect the negative battery cable.