GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 43649 Valve Spring Compressor
    • J 43655 Camshaft Support Holding Tool
    • SA9102E-A Valve Seal Remover/Replacer
    • SA9127E Gage Bar Set
    • J 43653 Flywheel Holding Tool

Removal Procedure

    Important: Prevent the crankshaft from rotating clockwise or counterclockwise before using compressed air in the cylinder. Rotation of the crankshaft may cause damage to J 43653 .

  1. If equipped with a manual transmission, leave the transmission in first gear with the vehicle on the ground and the parking brake set.
  2. If equipped with an automatic transmission, remove the starter. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  3. Install the J 43653 .

  4. Object Number: 896341  Size: SH
  5. Remove the spark plugs, cam cover, and camshaft. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .

  6. Object Number: 896342  Size: SH

    Important: During the camshaft removal procedure, the pistons are locked by the J 43655 and should not be rotated.

  7. Install the J 43649 . Use 4 cam cover bolts to mount the supports to the cam cover threaded holes.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the cam cover bolts-to-hold valve spring compressor to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

  9. Install the spark plug adapter from the SA9127E in the respective cylinder.
  10. Notice: Care should be used when servicing the valve spring, the retainer and the valve. If air pressure is lost, the valve(s) will drop into the cylinder.

  11. Pressurize the cylinder being serviced to 690 kPa (100 psi).
  12. Position the compressor assembly cover over the valve spring to be removed and turn the T-handle to compress the spring.

  13. Object Number: 894143  Size: SH
  14. Remove the valve spring cap, retainers, and release spring tension.
  15. Remove the cap and spring.
  16. Remove the valve stem seal using the SA9102E-A .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 896343  Size: SH

    Notice: If a valve seal is removed after it has been installed, it must be discarded. The valve stem lock groove will cut the seal's lip during removal. Use extreme care when installing valve retainers and do not damage the valve stems.

    Important: Before each valve stem seal is installed, oil the valve stem seal and guide. If a valve stem seal is removed, it must be discarded.

  1. Inspect the valve stem for scratches, scores, and scuffs. Spray the valve stem and guide with clean lubricating oil to remove any debris that may be present on the valve stem or the top of the guide.

  2. Object Number: 895158  Size: SH
  3. Oil the valve guide and valve stem. Install the valve stem oil seal with the SA9102E-A .

  4. Object Number: 895154  Size: SH
  5. Install the valve spring and cap.

  6. Object Number: 895150  Size: SH
  7. Compress the valve spring and install the retainers.
  8. Install the hydraulic lash adjusters in their correct locations.
  9. Remove the J 43649 and the spark plug adapter.
  10. Install the camshafts, cam cover, and spark plugs. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .
  11. If removed, install the starter. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  12. If used, remove the J 43653 .