GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1996 🢒 Astro - 4WD 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 4.3L (VIN W) 🢒 Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Remove the valve rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement or Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .

    2. Important: If only the pushrod is to be replaced, back the valve rocker arm nut off until the valve rocker arm can be moved away from the pushrod. Then pull the pushrod out.


    Object Number: 4045 Size: SH
  2. Remove the valve rocker arm nut.
  3. Remove the valve rocker arm with the ball.

    4. Important: 

       • The cylinder heads on the 4.3L engine use screw-in valve rocker arm studs with positive stop shoulders. Follow the replacement procedures. No valve adjustment is necessary.
       • When the valve train requires service, tighten the valve rocker arm nuts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).
       • Replace valve rocker arm studs that have damaged threads with new studs. If the threads in the head are damaged or stripped, re-tap the head and insert a helical type insert. If such an insert is not available, the head should be replaced.


    Object Number: 4081 Size: SH
  4. Remove the valve rocker arm stud by unscrewing.

    5. Important: Store the used components in an exact order, so they can be reassembled in the same position from which they were removed.


    Object Number: 4047 Size: SH
  5. Remove the pushrod.
  6. Inspect the valve rocker arms and balls at their mating surfaces. There surfaces should be free from wear or other damage.
  7. Inspect the valve rocker arm areas that contact the valve stems and the socket areas that contact the ends of the pushrods. These areas should be free of damage and wear.
  8. Inspect the pushrods for scoring or roughness.
  9. Roll the pushrod on a flat surface in order to determine if it is bent. If the pushrod is bent, the rod will not roll freely. Replace the pushrod if necessary.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 4081 Size: SH
  1. Install the valve rocker arm stud.

    2. Tighten
    Tighten the valve rocker arm stud to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).


    Object Number: 4047 Size: SH
  2. Install the pushrod. Ensure that the pushrod seats properly in the valve lifter.

    3. Important: When new valve rocker arms or balls are installed, coat the contact surfaces with high viscosity oil with zinc GM P/N 12345501 or the equivalent.


    Object Number: 4045 Size: SH
  3. Install the valve rocker arm and ball.
  4. Install the valve rocker arm nut.

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the valve rocker arm nut to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).

    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.

  5. Install the valve rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement or Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .