GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 43094 Spark Plug Boot Puller

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 233866  Size: SH
  1. Remove the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .
  2. Remove the oil level indicator tube bolt and reposition the oil level indicator tube. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .

  3. Object Number: 233873  Size: SH
  4. Remove the PCV valve and the vacuum hose (1) from the left camshaft cover.
  5. Remove the ignition coil assembly from the left camshaft cover. Refer to Ignition Coil Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.5L.
  6. Remove the engine wiring harness channel bolts.
  7. Reposition the engine wiring harness channel and the engine wiring harness.
  8. Remove the vacuum line from the left AIR check valve, if equipped.
  9. Reposition the vacuum lines from the camshaft cover.

  10. Object Number: 235193  Size: SH
  11. Remove the left camshaft cover bolts .
  12. Important: The camshaft cover seals should be reused unless they are damaged, or if the perimeter seal is pulled from the groove during removal.

  13. Lift the camshaft cover off the left cylinder head evenly.
  14. Insert the J 43094 and rotate the spark plug boot prior to removing the boot. Remove the spark plug boots using the J 43094 . Inspect the spark boots. Replace as necessary.
  15. If necessary, disassemble the camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Disassemble in Engine Mechanical - 3.5L Unit Repair.
  16. Clean and inspect the camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical - 3.5L Unit Repair.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 235193  Size: SH
  1. If necessary, assemble the camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Assemble in Engine Mechanical - 3.5L Unit Repair.
  2. Wipe the left cylinder head sealing surface with a clean, lint-free cloth.
  3. Inspect the camshaft cover seals for damage. Verify that the perimeter seal is seated securely in the groove. Replace the seals if damaged, or if the seals are pulled from the groove.
  4. Place the left camshaft cover in position, on the cylinder head.
  5. 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.

  6. Install the left camshaft cover bolts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  8. Install the spark plug boots to the ignition coil assembly.
  9. Install the ignition coil assembly to the left camshaft cover. Refer to Ignition Coil Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.5L.

  10. Object Number: 233873  Size: SH
  11. Install the PCV valve and the vacuum hose (1) to the left camshaft cover.
  12. Reposition the vacuum lines to the camshaft cover.
  13. Install the vacuum line to the left AIR check valve, If equipped.
  14. Install the engine wiring harness and the channel.
  15. Install the engine wiring harness channel bolts.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 233866  Size: SH
  17. Reposition the oil indicator tube and install the bolt. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .
  18. Inspect for leaks.
  19. Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .