GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 45027 Tensioner Tool
    • J 45059 (SA9140E) Angle Meter

    Object Number: 466551  Size: SH
  1. Install the timing chain drive sprocket to the crankshaft with the timing mark in the 5 o'clock position.

  2. Object Number: 466558  Size: SH

    Important: 

       • There are three colored links on the timing chain. Two links are of matching color and one link is of a unique color. Use the following procedure to line up the links with the sprockets. Orient the chain so that the colored links are visible.
       • Always use new sprocket bolts.

  3. Assemble the intake camshaft sprocket to the timing chain with the timing mark lined up with the uniquely colored link (1). Hand tighten a new intake camshaft sprocket bolt.

  4. Object Number: 412535  Size: SH
  5. Lower the timing chain through the opening in the cylinder head. Use care to ensure that the chain goes around both sides of the cylinder block bosses (1, 2).

  6. Object Number: 466565  Size: SH
  7. Route the timing chain around the crankshaft sprocket and line up the first matching colored link (2) with the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket, in approximately the 5 o'clock position.

  8. Object Number: 412160  Size: SH

    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.

  9. Install the adjustable timing chain guide through the opening in the cylinder head and install the adjustable timing chain bolt.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the adjustable timing chain guide bolt to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 412168  Size: SH

    Important: Always install new sprocket bolts.

  11. Install the exhaust camshaft sprocket and a new bolt loosely onto the exhaust camshaft.

  12. Object Number: 466570  Size: SH
  13. Align the timing mark on the sprocket with the last matching colored link (3). Install the bolt finger tight.

  14. Object Number: 412536  Size: SH

    Important: Do not turn the camshaft more than 1/2 turn in either direction. To do so may cause valve to piston contact. This may damage a valve and/or a piston. If the camshaft is 180 degrees out of time, use the following procedure to re-align the cam.

  15. Using a 24 mm wrench, first turn the intake camshaft until the alignment feature on the back of the camshaft sprocket seats in the notch in the front of the intake camshaft.
  16. 8.1. Turn the crankshaft 45 degrees in either direction.
    8.2. Turn the intake cam to the appropriate location.
    8.3. Turn the crankshaft back to top dead center.
  17. When the sprocket seats on the cam, tighten the sprocket bolt hand tight.
  18. Verify that all of the colored links and the appropriate timing marks are still aligned. If they are not, repeat the portion of the procedure necessary to align the timing marks.

  19. Object Number: 412165  Size: SH
  20. Install the fixed timing chain guide.
  21. Tighten
    Tighten the fixed timing chain guide bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 412167  Size: SH
  22. Install the upper timing chain guide.
  23. Tighten
    Tighten the upper timing chain guide bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 630311  Size: SH
  24. Using a 24 mm wrench, engage the hex on the intake camshaft and using a torque wrench, tighten the camshaft sprocket bolt.
  25. Tighten
    Tighten the intake camshaft sprocket bolt to 85 N·m (63 lb ft), plus 30 degrees using J 45059 (SA9140E).

  26. Using a 24 mm wrench, engage the hex on the exhaust camshaft and using a torque wrench, tighten the camshaft sprocket bolt.
  27. Tighten
    Tighten the exhaust camshaft sprocket bolt to 85 N·m (63 lb ft), plus 30 degrees using J 45059 (SA9140E).


    Object Number: 714496  Size: SH
  28. Remove the old oil from the timing chain tensioner.
  29. Inspect the timing chain tensioner for scoring or free movement.
  30. Inspect the timing chain tensioner seal for damage. If damaged, replace the seal.
  31. Measure the timing chain tensioner assembly from end to end.
  32. A new tensioner should be supplied in the fully compressed non-active state. A tensioner in the compressed state will measure 72 mm (2.83 in) (a) from end to end. A tensioner in the active state will measure 85 mm (3.35 in) (a) from end to end.


    Object Number: 797246  Size: SH
  33. If the timing chain tensioner is not in the compressed state, perform the following steps:
  34. 19.1. Remove the piston assembly from the body of the timing chain tensioner by pulling it out.
    19.2. Install the J 45027-2 (2) into a vise.
    19.3. Install the notch end of the piston assembly into the J 45027-2 (2).
    19.4. Using the J 45027-1 (1), turn the ratchet cylinder into the piston.

    Object Number: 714496  Size: SH
  35. Inspect the bore of the tensioner body for dirt, debris, and damage. If any damage appears, replace the tensioner. Clean dirt or debris out with a lint free cloth.
  36. Install the compressed piston assembly back into the timing chain tensioner body until it stops at the bottom of the bore. Do not compress the piston assembly against the bottom of the bore. If the piston assembly is compressed against the bottom of the bore, it will activate the tensioner, which will then need to be reset again.
  37. At this point the tensioner should measure approximately 72 mm (2.83 in) (a) from end to end. If the tensioner does not read 72 mm (2.83 in) (a) from end to end repeat steps 16.1 and 16.4.

  38. Object Number: 412158  Size: SH
  39. Inspect to ensure all dirt and debris is removed from the timing chain tensioner threaded hole in the cylinder head.
  40. Important: Make sure the timing chain tensioner seal is centered throughout the torque procedure to eliminate the possibility of an oil leak.

  41. Install the timing chain tensioner assembly.
  42. Tighten
    Tighten the timing chain tensioner to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).

  43. The timing chain tensioner is released by compressing it 2 mm (0.079 in) which will release the locking mechanism in the ratchet. To release the timing chain tensioner, use a suitable tool with a rubber tip on the end. Feed the tool down through the cam drive chest to rest on the cam chain. Then give a sharp jolt diagonally downwards to release the tensioner.

  44. Object Number: 412200  Size: SH
  45. Inspect to ensure that all dirt and debris is removed from the timing chain oiling nozzle hole in the engine block.
  46. Install the timing chain oiling nozzle.
  47. Tighten
    Tighten the timing chain oiling nozzle bolt to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 412164  Size: SH
  48. Apply sealant P/N 21485277 compound to the thread, and install the timing chain guide bolt access hole plug.
  49. Tighten
    Tighten the access hole plug to 90 N·m (59 lb ft).