GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

    • J 22794 Spark Plug Port Adapter
    • J 38606 Valve Spring Compressor

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 14824  Size: SH
  1. Remove the valve rocker arm. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement.
  2. Note: Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head with the engine at room temperature.

  3. Loosen the spark plug 1 or 2 turns.
  4. Brush or air blast away any dirt or debris from around the spark plug.
  5. Remove the spark plug.

  6. Object Number: 310140  Size: SH
  7. Install the J 22794 into the spark plug hole.
  8. Attach an air hose to the J 22794 .
  9. Apply compressed air to the J 22794 in order to hold the valves in place.

  10. Object Number: 218211  Size: SH
  11. Using the J 38606 compress the valve spring.

  12. Object Number: 1272854  Size: MH
  13. Remove the valve stem keys (225).
  14. Using the J 38606 carefully release the valve spring tension.
  15. Remove the J 38606 .
  16. Remove the valve spring cap (224).
  17. Remove the valve spring (223).
  18. Remove the valve stem oil seal (222).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1272854  Size: MH
  1. Clean the cylinder head valve spring seat and area.
  2. Install the valve stem oil seal (222).
  3. Install the valve spring (223).
  4. Install the valve spring cap (224).

  5. Object Number: 218211  Size: SH
  6. Compress the valve spring using the J 38606 .
  7. Install the valve stem keys.
  8. 6.1. Use grease in order to hold the valve stem keys in place.
    6.2. Make sure the keys seat properly in the groove of the valve stem.
    6.3. Using the J 38606 carefully release the valve spring tension, making sure the valve stem keys stay in place.
    6.4. Remove the J 38606 .
    6.5. Tap the end of the valve stem with a plastic faced hammer to seat the keys, if necessary.

    Object Number: 65039  Size: SH
  9. Remove the compressed air supply from the J 22794 .
  10. Remove the J 22794 from the spark plug port.
  11. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 14824  Size: SH
  12. Hand start the spark plug.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plug to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  14. Install the valve rocker arm. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement.