GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 2003 🢒 Savana 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L 🢒 Cylinder Head Replacement - Right Side

Tools Required

    • J 45059 Angle Meter
    • J 42385-200 Thread Repair Kit

Removal Procedure
  1. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.
  2. Remove the oil level indicator. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .
  3. Remove the coolant air bleed pipe. Refer to Coolant Air Bleed Pipe Assembly Replacement in Engine Cooling.
  4. Remove the right exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Right Side in Engine Exhaust.
  5. Remove the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .

    6. Object Number: 260149 Size: SH

    Important: The cylinder head bolts are NOT reusable.

  6. Remove the cylinder head bolts.

    7. Notice: After removal, place the cylinder head on 2 wood blocks in order to prevent damage to the sealing surfaces.

  7. Remove the cylinder head.

    8. Object Number: 63170 Size: SH
  8. Remove the cylinder head gasket.
  9. Discard the gasket.
  10. Discard the cylinder head bolts.
  11. Clean and inspect the cylinder head. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection .

Installation Procedure

Caution: Wear safety glasses in order to avoid eye damage.

Notice: Clean all dirt, debris, and coolant from the engine block cylinder head bolt holes. Failure to remove all foreign material may result in damaged threads, improperly tightened fasteners or damage to components.

Important: 

   • Do not reuse the cylinder head bolts. Install NEW cylinder head bolts during assembly.
   • Do not use any type of sealant on the cylinder head gasket (unless specified).
   • The cylinder head gaskets must be installed in the proper direction and position.


    Object Number: 63235 Size: SH
  1. Clean the engine block cylinder head bolt holes (if required).

    2. Thread repair tool J 42385-107, found in J 42385-200 may be used to clean the threads of old threadlocking material.

  2. Spray cleaner into the holes. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers for the correct part number.
  3. Clean the cylinder head bolt holes with compressed air.
  4. Check the cylinder head locating pins for proper installation.

    5. Object Number: 1332950 Size: SH

    Important: When properly installed, the tab on the right cylinder head gasket will be located right of center or closer to the front of the engine.

  5. Inspect the displacement markings (1) on the gasket for proper usage.

    6. Object Number: 63170 Size: SH
  6. Install the NEW right cylinder head gasket onto the locating pins.

    7. Object Number: 260149 Size: SH
  7. Install the cylinder head onto the locating pins and gasket.
  8. Install the NEW cylinder head bolts.

    9. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 260150 Size: SH
  9. Tighten the cylinder head bolts.

    10. Tighten

    1. Tighten the M11 cylinder head bolts a first pass in sequence to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).
    2. Tighten the M11 cylinder head bolts a second pass in sequence to 90 degrees using J 45059 .
    3. Tighten the M11 cylinder head bolts (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8) to 90 degrees and the M11 cylinder head bolts (9 and 10) to 50 degrees a final pass in sequence using J 45059 .
    4. Tighten the M8 cylinder head bolts (11,12,13,14,15) to 30 N·m (22 lb ft). Begin with the center bolt (11) and alternating side-to-side, work outward tightening all of the bolts.
  10. Install the pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  11. Install the right exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Right Side in Engine Exhaust.
  12. Install the coolant air bleed pipe. Refer to Coolant Air Bleed Pipe Assembly Replacement in Engine Cooling.
  13. Install the oil level indicator. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .
  14. Install the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.