GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 44221 Camshaft Holding Tool

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .
  2. Remove the engine front cover. Refer to Engine Front Cover Replacement .
  3. Rotate the crankshaft in the engine rotational direction clockwise, until the #1 piston is at top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke.
  4. Caution: Refer to Camshaft Holding Tool Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 858336  Size: SH
  5. Install the J 44221 to the rear of the camshafts.

  6. Object Number: 1619825  Size: SH
  7. Using the timing marks on the following as a reference, make a mark on the timing chain links (1) adjacent to them:
  8. • The exhaust camshaft position actuator sprocket
    • The intake camshaft sprocket
    • The crankshaft sprocket

    Object Number: 760721  Size: SH
  9. Release the tension on the timing chain by moving the tensioner shoe in.

  10. Object Number: 760718  Size: SH
  11. Place the tee into the tensioner to hold the shoe in place.

  12. Object Number: 637580  Size: SH
  13. Remove the timing chain tensioner bolts.
  14. Remove the timing chain tensioner from the engine.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 637580  Size: SH
  1. Position the timing chain tensioner to the engine.
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the timing chain tensioner bolts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).


    Object Number: 760718  Size: SH
  5. Remove the tee in the timing chain tensioner in order to regain tension on the timing chain.

  6. Object Number: 858336  Size: SH
  7. Remove the J 44221 from the camshafts.

  8. Object Number: 1619825  Size: SH

    Important: Every 7th link of the timing chain is darkened to aid in aligning the timing marks.

  9. Align the marked links (1) on the timing chain with the timing marks on the following:
  10. • The exhaust camshaft position actuator sprocket
    • The intake camshaft sprocket
    • The crankshaft sprocket
  11. Install the engine front cover. Refer to Engine Front Cover Replacement .
  12. Install the camshaft cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .