GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Valve Installation

Tools Required

J 8062 Valve Spring Compressor


    Object Number: 35216  Size: SH
  1. Lubricate the valve stems with clean engine oil.
  2. Insert the valves into their proper locations.
  3. Lubricate rotators with clean engine oil (5).
  4. Install the rotators over the guide and onto the cylinder head.
  5. Important: When installing valve stem oil seals onto the valve guides be careful not to tear the seal lip during installation.

  6. Install the oil seal (3) onto the valve guide.
  7. Install the valve spring (4).
  8. Install the cap (2).

  9. Object Number: 196664  Size: SH
  10. Use the J 8062 in order to compress the valve spring.
  11. Compress the spring enough in order to clearly see the valve stem key grooves.

  12. Install the valve stem keys (1).
  13. 9.1. Use grease in order to hold the keys in place.
    9.2. Ensure that the keys seat properly in the upper groove of the valve stem.
    9.3. Release the J 8062 .
    9.4. Remove the J 8062 .
    9.5. Tap the end of the stem with a plastic-faced hammer in order to seat the keys.

Checking Valve Spring Installed Height


    Object Number: 35203  Size: SH
  1. Measure the valve spring for the properly installed height. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications for proper valve spring installed height specifications.
  2. Use a thin scale and measure from the cylinder head spring seat to the top of the spring cap.

    Important: Never shim the spring to obtain an installed height under the specified amount.

    Important: Install the valve spring seat shims under the rotator (between the rotator and the cylinder head spring seat).

    Important: Add a maximum of one valve spring seat shim, up to 0.726 mm (0.030 in) thick to achieve the valve spring installed height specification

    Important: The combination of valve spring seat shims to correct valve spring installed height and valve spring tension should not exceed 1.524 mm (0.060 in) thick.

  3. Install a valve spring seat shim if the valve spring installed height measurement is above the specification.
  4. Recheck the valve spring installed height, replace the cylinder head if the valve spring installed height cannot be obtained.