GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 35268-A Camshaft/Front Main Seal Installer

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 785739  Size: SH
  1. If equipped with RPO code KA3, remove the bolt (1) securing the coolant heater ground lead (2) to the camshaft bearing cap (3).
  2. Remove the left camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement - Left Side .
  3. Remove the left camshaft drive sprockets. Refer to Camshaft Drive Sprocket Replacement .

  4. Object Number: 769021  Size: SH
  5. Alternately loosen the camshaft bearing cap bolts a few turns at a time using the loosening sequence.
  6. Remove the camshaft bearing cap bolts.

  7. Object Number: 769022  Size: SH
  8. Remove the camshaft bearing caps. Note the code marks on the bearing caps (R1, R2, R3, etc.).
  9. The bearing caps for the left cylinder head is marked with an R, followed by a number.

  10. Remove the camshafts from the cylinder head.
  11. Remove the camshaft seals.
  12. Clean all of the bearing surfaces.
  13. Clean all of the sealing surfaces.
  14. Clean and inspect the camshafts. Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 769034  Size: SH
  1. Choose the correct camshaft to be installed.
  2. Camshaft Identification

    • 2.6L (LY9)
       - The intake camshaft is stamped with the letter "F" next to bearing 1.
       - The exhaust camshaft is stamped with the letter "N" next to bearing 1.
    • 3.2L (LA3)
       - The intake camshaft is stamped with the letter "G" next to bearing 1.
       - The exhaust camshaft is stamped with the letter "J" next to bearing 1.
  3. Lubricate the following with GM P/N 1052367 (Canadian P/N 992869), or equivalent:
  4. • Camshaft bearing surfaces
    • Camshaft lobes

    Important: Ensure the pin on the exhaust camshaft is approximately in the 1 o'clock position and/or that the pin on the intake camshaft is approximately in the 8 o'clock position to allow for minimal load on the camshaft when installing the bearing caps.

  5. Install the camshafts to the cylinder head.

  6. Object Number: 797559  Size: SH

    Important: DO NOT allow the sealer to get into the oil journal of the cap.

  7. Apply a small amount of GM P/N 1052942 (Canadian P/N 10953466), or equivalent on the forward edge of the front bearing caps to ensure an adequate seal between the bearing cap and the cylinder head.

  8. Object Number: 769022  Size: SH
  9. Install the camshaft bearing caps according to the identification marks.
  10. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 769026  Size: SH
  11. Install the camshaft bearing cap bolts.
  12. Tighten

    1. Alternately hand tighten the camshaft bearing cap bolts in sequence a few turns at a time until all caps are fully seated.
    2. Tighten the camshaft bearing cap bolts in sequence to 8 N·m (71 lb in).
  13. Coat the lip of the camshaft seal with a small amount of clean engine oil to aid in installation.
  14. Use the J 35268-A to tap the camshaft seal into place.
  15. Ensure the camshaft seal is fully and evenly seated.

  16. Install the left camshaft drive sprockets. Refer to Camshaft Drive Sprocket Replacement .
  17. Install the left camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement - Left Side .

  18. Object Number: 785739  Size: SH
  19. If equipped with RPO code KA3, install the bolt (1) securing the coolant heater ground lead (2) to the camshaft bearing cap (3).
  20. Tighten
    Tighten the coolant heater ground lead bolt to 9 N·m (80 lb in).