GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 41131 Engine Tilt Strap

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. Disconnect the intake air temperature (IAT) sensor electrical connector.
  4. Remove the air inlet duct from the throttle body.
  5. Remove the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  6. Remove the right and the left engine mount struts. Refer to Engine Mount Strut Replacement - Right Side and Engine Mount Strut Replacement - Left Side .
  7. Rotate the engine for access. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access .
  8. Remove the right spark plug wires from the right spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L
  9. Remove the EVAP purge solenoid and the brace. Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Purge Solenoid Valve Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L.

  10. Object Number: 153580  Size: SH
  11. Remove the right engine lift bracket bolt and nut from the engine lift bracket.
  12. Remove the right engine lift bracket from the exhaust manifold.

  13. Object Number: 371090  Size: SH
  14. Remove the fuel injector sight shield bracket nuts.
  15. Remove the fuel injector sight shield bracket.

  16. Object Number: 406021  Size: SH
  17. Remove the right valve rocker arm cover bolts.
  18. 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 the palm of your hand or a soft rubber mallet.

  19. Remove the right valve rocker arm cover.
  20. Remove the right valve rocker arm cover gasket.
  21. Clean the valve rocker arm cover mating surfaces.
  22. Clean the valve rocker arm cover bolts of all thread locking adhesive.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 406021  Size: SH
  1. Install the new valve rocker arm cover gasket. Make sure that the valve rocker arm cover gasket is seated properly in the valve rocker arm cover groove.
  2. Install the right valve rocker arm cover.
  3. Apply thread lock compound GM P/N 12345493 (Canadian P/N 10953488) 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.

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


    Object Number: 371090  Size: SH
  7. Install the fuel injector sight shield bracket to the exhaust manifold.
  8. Install the fuel injector sight shield bracket nuts.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the fuel injector sight shield bracket nuts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).


    Object Number: 153580  Size: SH
  10. Install the right engine lift bracket to the exhaust manifold.
  11. Install the right engine lift bracket bolt and nut.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the right engine lift bracket bolt and nut to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

  13. Install the EVAP purge solenoid and the brace. Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Purge Solenoid Valve Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L.
  14. Install the right spark plug wires to the right spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L.
  15. Carefully release the J 41131 . Return the engine to the proper position.
  16. Install the right and the left engine mount struts. Refer to Engine Mount Strut Replacement - Right Side and Engine Mount Strut Replacement - Left Side .
  17. Install the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  18. Install the air inlet duct to the throttle body.
  19. Connect the intake air temperature (IAT) sensor electrical connector.
  20. Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .
  21. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  22. Check and fill crankcase as necessary.
  23. Inspect for oil leaks.