GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

This procedure only checks for a misbalance of the flex plate and or torque converter. Internal damage of the torque converter cannot be isolated by this procedure.

Tools Required

J Crankshaft Hub Holding Adapter

  1. Start the engine.
  2. Observe the vehicle for vibration with the engine at idle speed and the transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL.
  3. Turn OFF the engine.
  4. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to

    Caution: To help avoid personal injury when a vehicle is on a hoist, provide additional support for the vehicle at the opposite end from which components are being removed. This will reduce the possibility of the vehicle falling off the hoist.

    in General Information.
  5. Remove the torque converter bolt access plugs from the following components:
  6. • The oil pan
    • The bell housing

    Object Number: 158346  Size: SH
  7. Remove the flex plate-to-torque converter bolts.
  8. • Use a flat bladed tool to engage the flex plate tooth and rest against the transmission housing while loosening flex plate-to-torque converter bolts.
    • Discard the flex plate-to-torque converter bolts.
  9. Rotate the torque converter 60 degrees (1/6 turn).

    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.


    Object Number: 158346  Size: SH
  1. Install the flex plate-to-torque converter bolts. Hand start the flex plate-to torque converter bolts. Use a new flex plate-to-torque converter bolts with retaining compound removed from first three threads.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the flex plate-to-torque converter bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft) while holding flex plate with a flat-bladed tool. Refer to

    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.

    in General Information.

  3. Install the torque converter bolt access plugs to oil pan and the bell housing.
  4. Lower the vehicle.
  5. Start the engine and check for vibration. If vibration still exists repeat this procedure until best possible balance is obtained.