GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36660-A Electronic Torque Angle Meter


    Object Number: 182846  Size: SH
  1. Clean the cylinder gasket surfaces on the engine block.
  2. Inspect the dowel pins (cylinder head locator) for proper installation.
  3. Clean the cylinder head gasket surfaces on the cylinder head.

  4. Object Number: 317233  Size: SH

    Important: Do not use any type sealer on the cylinder head gasket (unless specified).

  5. Place the NEW cylinder head gasket in position over the dowel pins (cylinder head locator).
  6. The cylinder head gasket is not directional and may be installed using either side facing the engine block.


    Object Number: 317227  Size: SH
  7. Install the cylinder head to the engine block.
  8. Guide the cylinder head carefully into place over the dowel pins and the cylinder head gasket.


    Object Number: 317217  Size: SH
  9. Apply sealant GM P/N 12346004 or equivalent to the threads of the cylinder head bolts.
  10. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  11. Install the cylinder head bolts.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts in sequence on the first pass to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).


    Object Number: 500687  Size: SH
  13. Use the J 36660-A in order to tighten the cylinder head bolts in sequence on the final pass.
  14. Tighten

        • Tighten the long bolts (1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 13) on the final pass in sequence to 75 degrees.
        • Tighten the medium bolts (14 and 17) on the final pass in sequence to 65 degrees.
        • Tighten the short bolts (3, 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 15, and 16) on the final pass in sequence to 55 degrees.

    Object Number: 317307  Size: SH
  15. Measure the NEW spark plugs for the proper gap.
  16. Adjust the spark plug gap if necessary.

    Specification
    Spark plug gap to 1.52 mm (0.060 in)

  17. Install the NEW spark plugs.
  18. Tighten

        • Tighten the spark plugs for a USED cylinder head to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).
        • Tighten the spark plugs for the initial installation of a NEW cylinder head to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

    Object Number: 521828  Size: SH
  19. If reusing the engine coolant temperature (ECT) gauge sensor, apply sealant GM P/N 12346004 to the threads of the ECT gauge sensor.
  20. Install the ECT gauge sensor.
  21. Tighten
    Tighten the ECT gauge sensor to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).