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. Remove the camshaft position sensor. Refer to Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement in Engine Controls-3.5L.

  3. Object Number: 277962  Size: SH
  4. Compress the right secondary drive chain tensioner shoes with your hand.
  5. Lock the right secondary drive chain tensioner by inserting a piece of wire (2) into the access hole in the side of the tensioner (1).
  6. Slowly release the pressure from the right secondary drive chain tensioner shoes. The tensioner should remain closed.

  7. Object Number: 743140  Size: SH
  8. Remove the intake camshaft sprocket bolt.
  9. Remove the right intake secondary camshaft timing sprocket from the following:
  10. • The right intake camshaft.
    • The right secondary camshaft drive chain.
    • The primary camshaft drive chain.
  11. 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: 483133  Size: SH
  1. Position the right secondary camshaft timing components in the following order:
  2. 1.1. Align the intake sprocket drive pin (1) between the two darkened links (2).
    1.2. Align the exhaust sprocket drive pin (4) with the single darkened link (3).
    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: 743140  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: 277962  Size: SH
  7. Remove the locking wire (2) from the right secondary drive chain tensioner (1) allowing the tensioner shoes to expand and apply pressure to the drive chain.
  8. Install the camshaft position sensor. Refer to Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement in Engine Controls-3.5L.
  9. Install the primary camshaft drive chain tensioner. Refer to Primary Camshaft Drive Chain Tensioner Replacement .