GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2001 🢒 Grand Prix 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 3.8L 🢒 Valve Rocker Arm Cover Replacement - Left Side

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Before servicing any electrical component, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position and all electrical loads must be OFF, unless instructed otherwise in these procedures. If a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with a live exposed electrical terminal, also disconnect the negative battery cable. Failure to follow these precautions may cause personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  2. Remove the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .

    3. Object Number: 153577 Size: SH
  3. Remove the left engine lift bracket bolt and nut from the engine lift bracket.
  4. Remove the left engine lift bracket from the exhaust manifold.
  5. Remove the right engine mount strut bracket. Refer to Engine Mount Strut Bracket Replacement - Right Upper .
  6. Remove the left spark plug wires from the left spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L.
  7. Remove the left spark plug wire cover from the left valve rocker arm cover.

    8. Object Number: 406018 Size: SH
  8. Remove the left valve rocker arm cover bolts.

    9. Important: If the valve rocker arm cover adheres to the cylinder head, remove the valve rocker arm cover by bumping the end of the valve rocker arm cover with palm of hand or with a soft rubber mallet.

  9. Remove the left valve rocker arm cover.
  10. Remove the left valve rocker arm cover gasket.
  11. Clean the valve rocker arm mating surfaces.
  12. Clean the valve rocker arm cover bolts of all thread locking adhesive.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 406018 Size: SH
  1. Install the new valve rocker arm cover gasket. Make sure that valve rocker arm cover gasket is seated properly in the valve rocker arm cover groove.
  2. Install the left valve rocker arm cover.
  3. Apply thread lock compound GM P/N 12345493 or equivalent, to the valve rocker arm cover bolt threads.

    4. 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.

  4. Install the left valve rocker arm cover bolts.

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the left valve rocker arm cover bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

  5. Install the left spark plug wire cover to the left valve rocker arm cover.
  6. Install the left spark plug wires to the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L.
  7. Install the right engine mount strut bracket. Refer to Engine Mount Strut Bracket Replacement - Right Upper .

    8. Object Number: 153577 Size: SH
  8. Install the left engine lift bracket to the exhaust manifold.
  9. Install the left engine lift bracket bolt and nut.

    10. Tighten
    Tighten the engine lift bracket bolt and nut to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

  10. Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .
  11. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  12. Check and fill crankcase as necessary.
  13. Inspect for oil leaks.