GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 8089 Wire Brush


    Object Number: 35201  Size: SH
  1. Clean carbon from the combustion chambers, using the J 8089 .
  2. Clean the valve stems and the heads on a wire wheel.
  3. Clean carbon and the old gasket from the cylinder head gasket surface.
  4. Clean the valve guides using a valve guide cleaner.
  5. Inspect the cylinder head for cracks in the following components:
  6. • The exhaust ports
    • The combustion chambers
    • The coolant chamber
  7. Ensure that gasket surfaces are free of damage.
  8. Inspect the valves for damage. Grind or replace as necessary.
  9. Inspect the valve stems for damage. Ensure that the valve stems are not bent.

  10. Object Number: 63062  Size: SH
  11. Inspect the following components:
  12. • The valve rocker arms for damage or improper fit.
    • The valve seats.
    • Grind or reface as necessary.
    • The rotators for smooth rotation without binding.
    • The cylinder head for surface flatness.

Measuring Procedure

    • J 8001 Dial Indicator
    • J 9666 Valve Spring Tester

    Notice: Proper valve stem-to-valve guide clearance is necessary for proper engine operation and component life. Excessive clearance may cause a noisy valve train, premature valve stem oil seal failure, excessive oil consumption and related component damage. Insufficient clearance may cause a noisy valve train, rough engine operation or sticking valves that may lead to related component damage. Failure to inspect valve stem-to-valve guide clearance and repair or replace necessary components may lead to extensive engine damage.


    Object Number: 35214  Size: SH
  1. Measure the valve stem to guide bore clearance.
  2. 1.1. Clamp the J 8001 on one side of the cylinder head valve rocker arm cover gasket rail.
    1.2. Observe the dial indicator movement while moving the valve from side to side, crosswise to the head. The dial indicator measurement must be taken just above the valve guide bore.
    1.3. Drop the valve head about 1.6 mm (0.063 in) off of the valve seat.
    1.4. Move the stem of the valve from side to side using a light pressure in order to obtain a clearance reading. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications . If the clearance exceeds specifications, it will be necessary to ream the valve guide bores for the oversize valves as outlined later.

    Object Number: 4960  Size: SH
  3. Measure the valve spring tension using the J 9666 .
  4. 2.1. Compress the valve springs to the specified height. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications .
    2.2. Replace the valve springs that do not meet specification.