GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to

    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.

    in General Information.
  2. Remove the intake manifold. Refer to Intake Manifold Replacement .
  3. Remove the exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement .
  4. Remove the rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 42227  Size: SH
  6. Remove the electronic ignition module.
  7. Disconnect the spark plug wires.
  8. Remove the generator bracket and the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  9. Remove the A/C compressor bracket bolt.
  10. Remove the power steering pump. Refer to Section 3B.
  11. Remove the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  12. Remove the fuel pipe heat shield.
  13. Remove the rocker arm assemblies and the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .

  14. Object Number: 35842  Size: SH
  15. Remove the cylinder head bolts. Discard the bolts.
  16. Remove the cylinder head.

  17. Object Number: 26157  Size: SH
  18. Remove the cylinder head gasket.
  19. Clean all of the gasket mating surfaces.
  20. Inspect the cylinder head. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection .

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter
    • 7/16-14 tap

    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. Notice: Installing the head gasket with the arrow pointing to the front will cause gasket failure and possible engine failure. Head gaskets are not interchangeable.


    Object Number: 26157  Size: SH
  3. Install the head gasket with the arrow pointing to the front of the engine.

  4. Object Number: 35842  Size: SH
  5. Install the cylinder head.
  6. 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
  7. Install the new cylinder head bolts.
  8. Tighten

        • Tighten the bolts in sequence to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).
        • Rotate each bolt 120 degrees in sequence. Use the J 36660-A .
        • Rotate the center four bolts an additional 30 degrees. Use the J 36660-A .

    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.

  9. Install the rocker arm assemblies and the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  10. 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.

  11. Apply GM approved thread lock compound or equivalent to the rocker arm pedestal bolts before assembly.
  12. Install the intake manifold. Refer to Intake Manifold Replacement .
  13. Install the rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .
  14. Install the exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement .
  15. Install the A/C compressor bracket bolt.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 70 N·m (52 lb ft).

  17. Install the generator support bracket to the cylinder head. Install the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement in Engine Electrical.

  18. Object Number: 42227  Size: SH
  19. Install the electronic ignition module.
  20. Connect the spark plug wires.
  21. Install the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement . .
  22. Install the power steering pump. Refer to SECTION 3B.
  23. Install the fuel pipe heat shield.
  24. Connect the negative battery cable.