GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 23590 Spark Plug Port Adapter
    • J 5892-D Valve Spring Compressor

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the valve rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .
  2. Notice: This engine has aluminum cylinder heads. Do not remove the spark plugs from a hot engine, allow it to cool first. Removing the spark plugs from a hot engine may cause spark plug thread damage or cylinder head damage.

  3. Remove the spark plug.
  4. Important: Whenever valve train components are removed for service, they should be kept in order.

  5. Remove the rocker arm and pushrod on the cylinder to be serviced. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  6. Install J 23590 in the spark plug port and apply compressed air to hold the valves in place.

  7. Object Number: 193448  Size: SH
  8. Compress the valve spring with J 5892-D and remove the valve locks and cap.
  9. Carefully release the J 5892-D .

  10. Object Number: 193264  Size: SH
  11. Remove the spring, valve stem oil seal and the spring seat.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 193264  Size: SH
  1. Install the spring seat.
  2. Install a new valve stem oil seal.
  3. Set the valve spring and cap in place.

  4. Object Number: 193448  Size: SH
  5. Compress the valve spring with J 5892-D .
  6. Important: Make sure that the valve locks seat properly in the upper groove of the valve stem. Grease may be used to hold the locks in place while releasing the compressor tool.

  7. Install the valve locks and carefully release J 5892-D
  8. Remove J 23590
  9. 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.

  10. Install the spark plug.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plug to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  12. Install the rocker arm and the pushrod. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  13. Install the valve rocker arm cover. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement .