GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable.

  2. Object Number: 171253  Size: SH
  3. Disconnect the distributor electrical connector (3).
  4. Remove the two screws (2) and the distributor cap from the distributor.
  5. Mark the distributor housing position on the cylinder head.
  6. Mark the distributor coupling position on the distributor housing.
  7. Remove the distributor flange bolt (1) and the distributor housing from the cylinder head.
  8. Inspect the distributor cap and the rotor for cracks, terminal corrosion and wear. Replace as necessary.

If Distributor Position Was Lost

Tools Required

J 39313 Spark Plug Port Adaptor

If the engine was accidently cranked after the distributor was removed, the following procedure can be used to properly position the distributor.


    Object Number: 516380  Size: LH
  1. Crank the engine until the number 1 cylinder is at top dead center (TDC) on its compression stroke. This can be accomplished by the following:
  2. 1.1. Remove the fuel pump relay.
    1.2. Remove the number 1 spark plug. Refer to Spark Plug Replacement .
    1.3. Install the J 39313 and a compression gauge into the spark plug cavity.
    1.4. Crank the engine and observe the compression gauge. The TDC of the cylinder's compression stroke occurs when the compression reading is highest.
  3. Align the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley to the zero (0) position on the timing indicator.
  4. Position the rotor to the number 1 cylinder position on the distributor cap.
  5. Install the distributor.
  6. Remove the compression gauge and the J 39313 .
  7. Install the number 1 spark plug.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plug to 28 N·m (21 lb ft).

  9. Install the fuel pump relay.
  10. Set the ignition timing. Refer to Ignition Timing Adjustment in Engine Controls.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the distributor housing to the cylinder head. Match the marks made on the cylinder head and the distributor housing during removal. Also match the distributor coupling and the housing alignment marks.

  2. Object Number: 171253  Size: SH
  3. Install the distributor flange bolt (1). Do not tighten fully.
  4. Install the distributor cap to the distributor. Secure the distributor cap with two screws (2).
  5. Connect the distributor electrical connector (3).
  6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  7. Connect the negative (-) battery cable.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the negative (-) battery cable-to-negative (-) battery terminal retainer to 5.5 N·m (48.68 lb in).

  9. Set the ignition timing. Refer to Ignition Timing Adjustment in Engine Controls.

Noise Suppressor Filter

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 516379  Size: SH
  1. Remove the noise suppressor filter from the bulkhead (1).
  2. Remove the electrical tape and the noise suppressor filter from the main harness (3).
  3. Disconnect the noise suppressor filter electrical connector.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 516379  Size: SH
  1. Connect the noise suppressor filter electrical connector.
  2. Install the noise suppressor filter to the main harness. Secure with electrical tape.
  3. Install the noise suppressor filter (1) to the bulkhead.