GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1996 🢒 Cavalier 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 2.4L 🢒 Balance Shaft to Engine Timing

Tools Required

    • J 38122-A Balance Shaft Holder
    • J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

    Object Number: 33701 Size: SH
  1. Install the balance shaft assembly to the block. Use Loctite 272 GM P/N 12345493 on the housing assembly to the block bolts.
  2. If the balance shaft housing was dissassembled, loosely assemble the housing assembly to the block.

    3. Object Number: 63328 Size: SH
  3. Tighten the housing fasteners in sequence.

    4. Tighten

        • Tighten fasteners 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7 to 15 N·m (11 lb ft) + 40 degrees.
        • Tighten fasteners 3 and 8 to 10 N·m (89 lb in) + 40 degrees.

    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: 63729 Size: SH
  4. Tighten the housing assembly to block bolts in sequence.

    5. Tighten

        • Tighten bolts 1,2 and 4 to 25 N·m (18 lb ft) + 70 degrees.
        • Tighten bolt 3 to 40 N·m (30 lb in) + 60 degrees.
        • Tighten bolt 5 to 53 N·m (39 lb ft).
  5. Ensure that the balance shafts spin freely.
  6. If the balance shaft housing was dissassembled, install the oil pump pick-up screen into the housing. Lightly tap it into place with a plastic hammer.

    7. Important: If the balance shafts are not properly timed to the engine, the engine may vibrate or make noise.


    Object Number: 33660 Size: SH
  7. Install the timed balance shaft and housing assembly to the engine using the following steps:
    8. 7.1. Place the number one piston at TDC.
    7.2. Rotate the crankshaft 90 degrees
    7.3. Install the J 38122-A on to the balance shaft assembly to ensure the shafts do not rotate while the driven sprocket bolt is tightened.

    Notice: A new balance shaft driven sprocket bolt must be used any time the bolt is removed. If a new bolt is not used, the balance shaft sprocket may slip allowing the balance shafts to become mistimed and cause engine vibration.

    Important: The surface that was marked during disassembly of the driven sprocket must show if it is going to be reused. This will insure that the chain continues to ride on the same surface. If a new driven sprocket will be installed, either surface can be placed against the shaft.

  8. Install the driven sprocket to the shaft.

    9. Important: The balance shaft driven sprocket bolt is left hand threaded and must be tightened by rotating it in a counter clockwise direction.

  9. Install the driven sprocket bolt. Finger tighten.

    10. Object Number: 33654 Size: SH
  10. Install the balance shaft chain guide.
  11. Press the chain guide tightly against the chain.
  12. Tighten the chain tensioner bolt.

    13. Tighten
    Tighten the chain tensioner bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in). 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.

  13. Tighten the balance shaft driven sprocket bolt.

    14. Tighten
    Tighten the driven sprocket bolt to 40 N·m (30 lb ft). Use the J 36660-A in order to rotate the bolt an additional 45 degrees.

  14. Remove the J 38122-A from the balance shaft housing assembly.
  15. Loosen the balance shaft chain guide bolt.

    16. Important: A brass feeler gauge needs to be used in order to ensure correct measurements are obtained. If a steel gauge is used, it will not bend to conform to the guide and will cause incorrect measurements.

  16. Adjust the balance shaft drive chain tension. Insert a 1 mm (0.040 in) brass feeler gauge between the chain guide and the chain.
  17. Press the guide against the chain using about three pounds of force.
  18. Install the chain tensioner bolt.

    19. Tighten
    Tighten the chain tensioner bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  19. Install the balance shaft chain cover.
  20. Install the balance shaft chain cover nut and bolt.

    21. Tighten
    Tighten the chain cover nut and bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in).