GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1997 🢒 Camaro 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 3.8L 🢒 Camshaft Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Recover the refrigerant. Refer to SECTION 1B.
  2. Remove the radiator with the A/C condenser. Refer to SECTION 6B.
  3. Remove the valve lifters. Refer to Valve Lifter Replacement .
  4. Remove the engine front cover. Refer to Engine Front Cover Replacement .
  5. Remove the camshaft sprocket. Refer to Timing Chain and Sprocket Replacement .

    6. Notice: All camshaft journals are the same diameter, so care must be used in removing or installing the camshaft to avoid damage to the camshaft bearings.


    Object Number: 35815 Size: SH
  6. Remove the camshaft thrust plate bolts.
  7. Remove the camshaft thrust plate.

    8. Important: Do not attempt to repair the camshaft, replace it if it is damaged. If a new camshaft is installed, all valve lifters must be replaced. Replace trhe camshaft bearings, if necessary.

  8. Use the following procedure to remove the camshaft:
    9. 8.1. Install three 5/16-18 x 4 in bolts in the camshaft bolt holes.
    8.2. Carefully rotate and pull the camshaft out of the bearings.
  9. Inspect the sprocket.
  10. Inspect the keyway and threads.
  11. Inspect the bearing surfaces lobes for the following conditions:
    12. • Wear
    • Galling
    • Gouge
    • Overheating (discoloration)
  12. Measure the bearing journals. Use a micrometer in order to measure the diameter and run-out. If the journals are out of specification replace the camshaft.

Installation Procedure
  1. Coat the camshaft with prelube GM P/N 12345501 or equivalent before installation.

    2. Object Number: 35815 Size: SH
  2. Install the camshaft.
  3. Install the camshaft thrust plate.
  4. Install the camshaft thrust plate bolts.

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the thrust plate bolts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  5. Install the camshaft sprocket. Refer to Timing Chain and Sprocket Replacement .
  6. Install the engine front cover. Refer to Engine Front Cover Replacement .
  7. Install the valve lifters. Refer to Valve Lifter Replacement .
  8. Install the radiator with the A/C condenser. Refer to SECTION 6B.
  9. Charge the A/C system. Refer to SECTION 1B.