GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 38606 Valve Spring Compressor
    • J 26999-30 Air Line Adapter
  1. Remove the rocker arm covers. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement.
  2. Remove the rocker arm shaft with the rocker arms. Refer to Rocker Arm and Pushrod Replacement.
  3. Remove the glow plugs.

  4. Object Number: 31730  Size: SH
  5. Rotate the engine until the piston for the cylinder being serviced is at TDC.
  6. Place J 26999-30 into the glow plug hole.
  7. Apply compressed air to hold the valves in place.
  8. The removal of compressed air can cause the valves to drop into the cylinder.

  9. Use J 38606 to compress the valve spring.
  10. If the spring will not compress, lightly tap on the tool with a mallet in order to break the cap or rotor loose from the valve keepers.


    Object Number: 43243  Size: SH
  11. Remove the valve keepers.

  12. Object Number: 43244  Size: SH
  13. Carefully release the spring tension. Remove J 38606 .
  14. Remove the cap or rotator, the shield, and the valve spring with damper.
  15. Remove the valve seal(s).

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 38606 Valve Spring Compressor
    • J 26999-30 Air Line Adapter

    Important: Air pressure should remain applied to the cylinder for installation.


    Object Number: 43244  Size: SH
  1. Install new valve seal(s).

  2. Object Number: 43243  Size: SH
  3. Install the valve spring with damper, the shield, and the cap or rotator.
  4. Install the valve keepers.
  5. 3.1. Install the valve keepers. Use grease to hold them in place.
    3.2. Carefully release the spring pressure. Make sure the valve keepers remain in place.
    3.3. Remove J 38606 and J 26999-30 .
  6. Insert the glow plugs.
  7. Install the rocker arm shaft with the rocker arms. Refer to Rocker Arm and Pushrod Replacement.
  8. Install the rocker arm covers. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement.