GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 3049-A Valve Lifter Remover

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .
  2. Remove the valve rocker arms and the valve pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .

  3. Object Number: 328592  Size: SH

    Important: Place the components in a rack so that the components can be reinstalled to their original location.

  4. Remove the bolts and valve lifter pushrod guide.

  5. Object Number: 328593  Size: SH

    Important: Place the valve lifters in the rack in the upright position in order to maintain the oil inside the valve lifters.

  6. Remove the valve lifters.

  7. Object Number: 31350  Size: SH

    Important: Some valve lifters may be stuck in the valve lifter bores because of gum or varnish deposits and may require the use of J 3049-A for removal.

  8. Use the J 3049-A in order to remove the stuck valve lifters.
  9. Use a cleaning solvent and a shop towel to clean any varnish from the valve lifter bores.
  10. Inspect the valve lifter bores for excessive wear or scoring. Replace the engine block if there is excessive wear or deep scoring.
  11. Inspect the camshaft for wear or damage. If the wear is questionable remove the camshaft and inspect. Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection .
  12. Clean and inspect the valve lifters and the valve pushrod guide. Refer to Valve Lifter and Guide Cleaning and Inspection .

Installation Procedure

Important: It is normal for NEW lifters to make a slight ticking noise when the engine is first started. Increasing the engine RPM slightly to raise oil pressure should stop the noise.


    Object Number: 328593  Size: SH
  1. Apply lubricant to the valve lifter rollers. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers for the correct part number.
  2. Important: If reusing the valve lifters, install the valve lifters in the original positions.

  3. Install the valve lifters.
  4. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 328592  Size: SH
  5. Install the valve lifter pushrod guides.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the valve lifter pushrod guide bolts to 16 N·m (12 lb ft).

  7. Install the valve rocker arms and pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  8. Install the lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .