GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 39579 Camshaft Sprocket Wrench
    • J 36008-A Camshaft Sprocket Alignment Pins

    Important: Ensure that the camshaft sprocket alignment pins are in the cylinder block and the timing chain housing, prior to installing the timing chain housing. The camshaft sprocket alignment pins ensure proper chain housing and front cover location for correct front oil-seal-to-crankshaft alignment.


    Object Number: 33625  Size: SH
  1. Install J 36008-A through holes in the camshaft sprockets and into holes in the timing chain housing. This will position the camshaft for correct timing.
  2. Use the following steps if the camshafts are out of position and must be rotated more than 1/8 turn to install the alignment dowel pins:
  3.         Notice: Failure to follow this procedure could result in severe engine damage.

    2.1. The crankshaft must be rotated 90 degrees clockwise off of TDC to give the valves adequate clearance to open.
    2.2. Once the camshafts are in position and the dowels are installed, rotate the crankshaft counter-clockwise back to TDC.

    Notice: Do not rotate the crankshaft clockwise to TDC. Valve or piston damage could occur.

    Important: The timing chain and crankshaft sprocket must be put on in a specific direction for chain noise and wear considerations. The surfaces that were marked during removal should be showing when the chain and crankshaft sprocket are installed.

  4. Install the timing chain over the exhaust camshaft sprocket around the coolant pump sprocket and around the crankshaft sprocket.
  5. Remove the alignment dowel pin from the intake camshaft. Use J 39579 in order to rotate the intake camshaft sprocket counter-clockwise enough to allow the timing chain to slide over the intake camshaft sprocket.
  6. Release J 39579 . The length of the chain between the two camshaft sprockets will tighten.

  7. Object Number: 62885  Size: SH
  8. If properly timed the intake camshaft alignment dowel pin will slide in easily. If the dowel pin does not fully index, the camshafts are not timed correctly and the procedure must be repeated.
  9. Leave the alignment dowel pins installed.
  10. The keyway on the crankshaft and the mark on the cylinder block should be aligned, with the slack removed from the chain between the intake camshaft sprocket and the crankshaft sprocket. If the mark and keyway are not aligned, move the chain on tooth forward or rearward; remove the slack and recheck marks.
  11. Use the following steps in order to reload the timing chain tensioner assembly to its zero position:
  12. 9.1. Form a keeper from a piece of heavy gauge wire.
    9.2. Apply slight force on the tensioner shoe in order to compress the plunger.
    9.3. Insert a small screwdriver into the reset access hole, and pry the ratchet pawl away from the ratchet teeth while forcing the plunger completely in the hole.
    9.4. Install the keeper between the access hole and the blade.

    Object Number: 33623  Size: SH
  13. Install the tensioner assembly to the chain housing.
  14. Inspect the plunger assembly installation, it is correctly installed when the long end is toward the crankshaft.
  15. Install the timing chain tensioner bolts. Do not over tighten.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

    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.

  17. Remove the alignment dowel pins.
  18. Notice: The timing chain on the LD9 (VIN T) Twin Cam Engine is not to be replaced with the timing chain from any other model year. The timing sprockets are different on the Twin Cam engine and the shape of the links matches the sprockets. Engine damage may result if the wrong timing chain is used. The timing chain and the crankshaft sprocket must be marked so that they are reinstalled in the same side facing out at the time of reassembly.

  19. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise two full rotations. Align the crankshaft keyway with the mark on the cylinder block and reinstall the alignment dowel pins. The alignment dowel pins will slide in easily if the engine is timed correctly.
  20. Install the timing chain guides.