GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36660-A Electronic Torque Angle Meter

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the primary camshaft drive chain tensioner. Refer to Primary Camshaft Drive Chain Tensioner Replacement .

  2. Object Number: 482996  Size: SH
  3. Compress the left secondary drive chain tensioner shoes with your hand.
  4. Lock the left secondary drive chain tensioner by inserting a piece of wire (2) into the access hole in the side of the tensioner (1).
  5. Slowly release the pressure from the left secondary drive chain tensioner shoes. The tensioner should remain closed.

  6. Object Number: 743138  Size: SH
  7. Remove the intake camshaft sprocket bolt.
  8. Remove the left intake secondary camshaft timing sprocket from the following:
  9. • The left intake camshaft.
    • The left secondary camshaft drive chain.
    • The primary camshaft drive chain.
  10. Clean and inspect the camshaft timing drive components. Refer to Camshaft Timing Drive Components Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical-3.5L Unit Repair.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 287924  Size: SH
  1. Position the left secondary camshaft timing components in the following order:
  2. 1.1. Align the intake sprocket drive pin (4) with the single darkened link (3).
    1.2. Align the exhaust sprocket drive pin (1) between the two darkened links (2).
    1.3. Slide the intake camshaft sprocket onto the camshaft aligning the drive pin into the camshaft notch.
  3. Position the primary camshaft drive chain to the intake sprocket.

  4. Object Number: 743138  Size: SH

    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.

  5. Install the intake camshaft sprocket bolt.
  6. Tighten

    1. Tighten the camshaft sprocket bolt to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
    2. Use the J 36660-A in order to tighten the camshaft sprocket bolt an additional 45 degrees.

    Object Number: 482996  Size: SH
  7. Remove the locking wire (2) from the left secondary drive chain tensioner (1) allowing the tensioner shoes to expand and apply pressure to the drive chain.
  8. Install the primary camshaft drive chain tensioner. Refer to Primary Camshaft Drive Chain Tensioner Replacement .